Post Sexual Assault Outcomes in Females
Sexual assault is one of the most complex issues in our society. It is one of the most injurious crimes that perpetrators can inflict on other individuals. Females are among the most vulnerable. Female survivors of sexual assault of any age may experience long-term adverse effects later in life. Thus, this presentation reviews four research trends in the long-term negative outcomes of sexual assault. First, female victims of sexual assault experience shame and low self-esteem. Second, there is a high risk for revictimization for female survivors of sexual assault. Third, female victims experience emotional and psychological challenges. Lastly, female survivors of sexual assault are at risk for mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal ideation. Researchers have reported that once a female has experienced sexual assault, her risk of experiencing further sexual victimization is significantly elevated. Victims may experience high levels of shame and guilt and feel that they are to blame for the sexual assault and their inability to escape from their perpetrators. Future directions will also be discussed, including the need for research focused on strategies for improving accurate societal understanding of sexual assault and its long-term effects.
PSY 499, Capstone
Mary Ann Winter-Messiers
Banquet Room
11 – 11:30 AM