What to Say to a Victim of Sexual Assault

When trying to offer support to a victim of rape or sexual assault, try not to be judgmental or to take control. (Even when we know a great deal about sexual assault, we bring our prejudices into all situations.) A sympathetic ear can make a big difference in the recovery process. After an assault, victims may feel out of control. Although you may be tempted to give advice or to make decisions for them, it is important that they begin regaining control by making choices themselves. You can be helpful by discussing options and providing them with necessary information.

Most importantly, you should communicate these points:

            “I’m glad that you’re alive”

            “It’s not your fault”

            “I’m sorry that it happened”

            “You did the best that you could”

Also, keep these guidelines in mind:

DO:

• Be a good listener
• Assist them in getting the help they want and need. This may mean providing phone numbers, information, transportation, etc.
• Remember that it is important for victims to make their own decisions.
• If a victim feels guilty about not fighting back, tell them that fear often inhibits people and that cooperation does not mean consent.
• Try to minimize the number of times the victim must tell the story.
• Assure the victim that it was not their fault. No one asks to be raped; no one deserves to be raped.
• Help the victim understand that this will cause a disruption in their life, but that they will recover.
• Be there for the victim. Listen and be supportive.

DON’T:

• Give advice or make decisions for the victim.
• Tell them what they should have done.
• Ask why they didn’t scream or fight.
• Prevent the victim from talking about the assault if they want to.
• Ask the victim if they did anything to lead the attacker on or what they were wearing.

For more info. contact: The Office of Substance Abuse & Sexual Assault Education 831-5709, or the Women’s Resource Center at 639-1123.

Resources

On Campus:

Office of Substance Abuse & Sexual Assault Education

Tyler Hall

831-5709

This office offers support, information, advocacy, counseling and referrals to sexual assault victims, as well as consultation and programs for students, parents, faculty and staff.

Student Counseling Services

Tyler Hall

831-5226

The Center provides confidential professional counseling to students. Regular office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm. After hours emergency services are available through campus police, 831-5500.

Dean of Students Office

Heth Student Center

831-5321

The office serves as one place on campus where a student may report an incident of sexual assault. They are prepared to listen to the student, suggest possible courses of action, and interpret university policies. They assist students in filing judicial charges, facilitate interim actions required to help protect survivors from further harm and to help with any special considerations needed to successfully complete academic requirements.

Student Health Center

Moffett Hall

831-5111

The center provides full service for gynecological exams, including testing for sexually transmitted infections.

University Police

Russell Hall

831-5500

Trained officers available 24 hours a day to assist survivors

Off-Campus

Women’s Resource Center Sexual Assault / Domestic Violence Crisis Hotline

639-1123

This center provides free, confidential 24 hour emotional support, companion services, court advocacy, counseling, shelter, and crisis intervention to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.

Radford City Police

911 emergency

731-3624 non-emergency

Officers available 24 hours a day to assist survivors

New River Valley Medical Center (Emergency Room)

731-2000

A survivor of sexual assault will receive the medical attention they need and evidence may be collected at the emergency room.