Chapter 9 - Sexual Assault

Question 1

What is the definition of rape?

Answer 1

an unwanted act of oral, vaginal, or anal penetration committed through the use of force, threat of force, or when incapacitated

Question 2

What are the myths about rape?

Answer 2

1) Rape Equals Rough Sex
2) Crying Rape for Revenge
3) It’s Motivated by Lust
4) Rapists are Social Outcasts
5) Victim Provokes Rape
6) Only “Bad” Women
7) “Typical” Rape Scenario (i.e. acquaintance Rape is ignored)
8) Lack of Resistance Equals Consent

Question 3

What are the responses to rape?

Answer 3

-Survivors may exhibit a range of emotional responses, including appearing unaffected or experiencing humiliation.

-Physical and psychological injuries can be immediate or long-term, impacting sexual functioning and leading to self-blame.

-Difficulty in trusting others and reliving the assault through nightmares or fantasies of revenge are common.

-Despite changes, survivors can recover, cope, and move forward, although they may fear reporting the assault and face challenges in discussing it.

Question 4

What is the impact stage and how should the crisis worker respond?

Answer 4

The impact stage occurs during the assault and about 2 weeks afterwards where the client experiences a variety of emotions.

The crisis worker should provide support, safety, and practical assistance (a.k.a. psychological first aid)

Question 5

What are the phases of child sexual abuse (in order)?

Answer 5

1) Engagement Phase

2) Sexual Interaction Phase

3) Secrecy Phase

4) Disclosure Phase

5) Suppression Phase

6) Survival Phase

Question 6

What are the myths about men and sexual assault?

Answer 6

“Boys and men can’t be victims”

“Gay men are usually the perpetrators of sexual abuse of boys”

“Boys are less traumatized than girls”

“Boys abused by men will later become gay”

“Abuse victims become abusers” (a.k.a. the zombie/vampire effect)

“Boys as “lucky” when abused by women”

“Physical arousal during abuse means enjoyment”