Trigger warning: rape and sexual violence.
It’s a well-known but heartbreaking fact that many survivors of sexual assault choose not to come forward. According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), a mere 33.1% of all rapes are reported to law enforcement. Alarmingly, college campuses are among the most common settings for such incidents, with Culture of Respect revealing that 20%—or 1 in 5—college women are survivors of sexual assault. Even more troubling is that only 11% of these assaults on campus are reported, making it one of the most underreported violent crimes.
When survivors are asked, “Why didn’t you report it?” the reasons are often complex and deeply personal. For instance, after I was assaulted during my college years, I was dissuaded from reporting it due to the likelihood of having to recount my experience publicly in a student judicial process. The fear of facing my assailant in a courtroom, coupled with the high probability of him not being convicted, made the prospect of reporting unbearable.
The fear of disbelief looms large for many victims. The thought of having to repeatedly relive the trauma before police, lawyers, and juries is daunting. We worry that any misstep or inconsistency in our narratives could unravel our case and leave our assailants unpunished. There’s a pervasive dread that we might be branded as “The Girl Who Got Raped,” a label that comes with its own set of stigmas and consequences.
Reporting an assault can lead to a backlash, as many women have experienced firsthand. In various cases, individuals who have come forward have faced severe repercussions. For example, a female midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy was punished for underage drinking after she reported being raped by three football players. Similarly, a student at Brigham Young University was expelled for drug use after reporting an assault that occurred while she was under the influence.
While not all survivors are expelled, many suffer academically and emotionally. They may experience declining grades and lose out on opportunities, with some ultimately dropping out. Take, for instance, the story of Sarah, a student at Notre Dame who endured acquaintance rape and subsequently developed an eating disorder and depression, leading to her decision to leave school permanently. Research has shown that sexual assault can trigger PTSD in 30-50% of survivors, making it nearly impossible to maintain a normal academic life. Victims often find that their mental health necessitates a change in environment.
The professional ramifications of reporting sexual assault are equally troubling. Many women fear losing their jobs, being overlooked for promotions, or facing retaliation in their careers. One study indicates that 75% of women who report sexual assault encounter some form of retaliation. High-profile cases illustrate this stark reality. Women like Dana and Julie, who reported assaults by comedian Louis CK, felt pressured to stay silent due to fears of career repercussions. Others, like Tara Subkoff and Mira Sorvino, have shared how rejecting powerful figures led to significant professional setbacks.
The stigma attached to survivors can persist for years. Names like Monica Lewinsky and Anita Hill are forever linked to their assaults, and they often bear the brunt of public scrutiny and judgment. The label of “victim” can overshadow their accomplishments and contributions to society, branding them as troublemakers for simply speaking out.
While movements like #MeToo have sparked conversations and solidarity, they have not sufficiently addressed the systemic issues faced by survivors. Policies like Title IX, which are meant to protect students, often fall short. Women who report incidents to human resources can find themselves facing job loss or workplace retaliation.
How many potential careers are derailed because of the fear of speaking out? The reality is that countless women suffer silently, grappling with the aftermath of assaults that not only affect them physically and emotionally but can also derail their professional lives. Would I have had better opportunities if I hadn’t had to deal with the ramifications of my assault? It’s a question many survivors ponder, knowing that their dreams and prospects have been irrevocably altered due to the actions of another.
For more information on the impact of sexual assault and support systems available, visit The Center for Reproductive Health at UCSF. Additionally, for those considering home insemination, you can find helpful resources like the Impregnator Home Insemination Kit and explore ways to boost fertility.
In summary, the journey for survivors of sexual assault is fraught with challenges that extend beyond the act itself. The fear of reporting, the potential for retaliation, and the emotional toll can hinder not only personal healing but also professional aspirations. It is crucial to recognize and address these barriers to support survivors in reclaiming their lives and futures.
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