Sexual Trauma

Sexual assault can cause some of the deepest, most intense psychological reactions. Often times the psychological damage from sexual assault, far surpasses any physical damage which may have occurred. Many rape or sexual assault victims display typical post traumatic stress disorder symptoms in the weeks, months and even years following the event. Depression and eating disorders as well as other psychological symptoms may be related to sexual assault. Sexual assault on children can be especially traumatic.

In addition to PTSD reactions, sexual assault victims show some trauma symptoms that are unique to their traumatic experiences. Many victims live in fear of their offenders and are petrified that they may see the person again. Victims often experience humiliation, shame and self-blame about the event; thinking that there must have been something they could have done to stop the assault from happening. This reaction is particularly dangerous because it often leads victims to keep their experiences secret, therefore preventing them from getting help. The situation gets even more complicated when the offender is a friend, lover or even acquaintance of the victim. These circumstances frequently lead to trust issues for the victim. Psychological damage is especially severe when sexual assault is committed by parents on children.

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