JUST IN AND VERY IMPORTANT!!

Old duo – abuse and cover-up – taints Boy Scouts, too

It’s a vicious paradox: Organizations focused on helping the young are also magnets for molesters bent on abusing the young.

THE NEWS TRIBUNE (Tacoma, WA. 20 Sept. 2012, Electronic Version)

[No Changes Made, except to Text Size]

Predators drawn to children and adolescents have insinuated themselves into virtually every kind of position that gives them access to youth and allows them to hide under a mantle of trust and authority. They’ve become priests, coaches, schoolteachers, youth ministers, rabbis and Scout volunteers.

The organizations and communities they’ve penetrated are often loath to report them, sometimes out of a well-meaning reluctance to expose the youths involved but often out of a self-serving impulse to avoid public shame.

Some leaders of the Boy Scouts of America have succumbed to that temptation in decades past, as the Los Angeles Times documented in extensive detail Sunday.

After reviewing confidential BSA files released in the course of lawsuits, the newspaper found 500 cases of alleged abuses between 1970 and 1991 in which Scout leaders might not have reported the accusations to authorities.

The number may include dubious accusations and perhaps cases where reports were made but not documented. But in 100-plus instances, Scout officials reportedly tried to conceal the allegations – sometimes allowing the accused to leave the organization quietly.

As the Roman Catholic Church has learned to its sorrow, such misplaced sympathy can devastate an organization that allows it to fester – not to mention the future victims of a protected predator. Molesters can’t operate undetected forever; sooner or later, their crimes are likely to surface.

At this point, it would be unfair to conclude that the Boy Scouts are more culpable than other organizations heavily involved in youth.

Many millions of youths and volunteer leaders belonged to the Scouts over the two decades covered by Los Angeles Times’ investigation. There were undoubtedly more than a few hundred cover-ups over this period; the question is, how many more?

It’s apparent that the Scouts were at least trying to keep molesters out of their ranks by maintaining a blacklist of expelled staff members and volunteers.

Youth-oriented organizations have learned a lot about preventing sex abuse in the past couple of decades. The Scouts now employ multiple safeguards, including criminal background checks, mandatory reporting, training and a policy that prohibits any adult from being alone with children.

The lessons weren’t cheap. Two years ago, for example, the Boy Scouts of America was ordered to pay nearly $20 million to a single man for its failure to protect him from an assistant troop leader in the early 1980s.

Other damages are likely in store for the organization. With crimes this grave, there’s no easy escape from the past.

RAPE IS A CRIME:

According to most estimates, 80-90% of rapes are not reported to authorities. Current trends project that 1 in 3 American women will be sexually assaulted at some point during her life.

The typical rape victim is a 16-24 year-old woman. Anyone, however -- man or woman, adult or child -- can be the victim of rape. Most commonly, the assailant is a 25-44 year-old man who plans his attack. He usually chooses a woman of the same race. Nearly half the time, the victim knows the rapist at least casually, by working or living near him. Alcohol is involved in more than 1 out of 3 rapes. Over 50% of rapes occur in the victim's home. The rapist breaks into the victim's home or gains access under false pretenses, such as asking to use the phone or posing as a repairman or salesman. Rape is a violent act, and most commonly committed by a male upon a female. However, some cases of rape have been reported in which a woman has raped a man. Rape also may occur between members of the same sex. This is more prevalent in situations where access to the opposite sex is restricted (such as prisons, military settings, and single-sex schools). Rape is an act of violence expressed through sex, but is not primarily about sex. Those who face some form of discrimination are believed to be at higher risk of sexual assault. This increased vulnerability can assume various forms. For example, those with disabilities or limited language skills have a decreased ability to call for help; prostitutes or convicted prisoners have decreased credibility.

Rape Prevention

The most useful prevention tool currently available is to make women more aware of the reality of rape. Law enforcement agencies strongly advocate prevention as the best form of protection. The following safety tips may help minimize the chance of being raped:

• Keep doors/windows secured with locks. 
   
• If walking or jogging, stay out of secluded or isolated areas and arrange to do the activity with at least one other friend, rather than alone. It is best to engage in activities during daylight hours. 
   
• Try to appear strong, confident, aware, and secure in your surroundings. 
   
• Keep car doors locked while driving, check back of car for intruders prior to getting in, and park in open, well-lit areas. 
   
• On public transportation, sit near the driver or up front if possible; avoid sitting near groups of young men obviously associated with one another. 
   
• Consider taking a self-defense class, which can promote self-confidence and provide useful skills and strategies for different situations. 
   
• Carry items that can call attention to you if needed (whistles, personal alarms, etc.) 
   
• If an assault attempt is initiated, scream loudly and/or blow a whistle. 
   
• Do not hitchhike. If your vehicle breaks down and someone offers to give you a ride, ask the person to call for help while you stay locked in your vehicle. 
   
  

It is better to respond quickly and actively to an attack, according to numerous studies. People, especially women, who resist the attacker this way are more likely to avoid being raped, compared with those who exhibit either passive behavior or no resistance.

The Symptoms Of Being Raped:

Rape is a very traumatic event. The person who was raped may or may not be able to say that she was actually raped, or she may seek medical attention for a different complaint. Emotional reactions differ greatly and may include: confusion, social withdrawal, tearfulness, nervousness or seemingly inappropriate laughter, numbness, hostility, and fear. A person who was raped may have a variety of other physical concerns needing to be addressed. Physical abuse is often present as well. Emergency room staff are specially trained to deal with all of these situations.

The Signs o Being Raped and The Tests That Must Be Conducted

A history will be obtained in a supportive and non-judgmental way. This will include the details of the attack: the date and time of the rape, where it occurred, and what the attacked person has done since the attack (for example, showered and changed clothes or came directly to the hospital). If possible, this interview should be done with both medical and investigating police present, to eliminate the need for the person to repeatedly recall the incident. Additional medical history that should be obtained includes: any possibility of pregnancy prior to the attack; the date of the last menstrual period; a pertinent gynecological history, including any prior sexual abuse or assault; and the presence of chronic illness or recent illness or injury, as well as current medications. A complete physical examination should be done to document any objective signs of trauma. Pictures may be taken to note bruises, scrapes, or cuts. X-rays will be taken if fractures are suspected. Numerous samples and specimens may be collected for evidence including clothing, pubic hair samples (particularly if foreign materials are seen within it), fingernail scrapings, and vaginal samples to examine for evidence of sperm and test for sexually transmitted diseases (mouth or anal samples may also be required).

Rape and/or Sexual Assault Treatment

In many cities, rape cases are referred to specific emergency rooms. This allows for more specialized care for the unique needs of the person who was raped, and assures proper procedures are followed to maintain the "chain of evidence" necessary for a case that may go to trial. Such sexual assault treatment centers may also employ, or have available on-call, a team that is specialized in assessing and dealing with the emotional, physical, and legal issues a person who was raped faces. Most state laws require that the person be evaluated in the emergency room prior to the rape being officially reported. It is recommended that a person go to the hospital immediately after the rape occurs, without changing clothes, showering, douching, or urinating. Such activities may alter or destroy evidence helpful in identifying and prosecuting the rapist. Treatment focuses on providing enough emotional support while attempting to collect enough objective evidence to verify the person's complaint of rape. If the person who was raped has a support person she wants present, the treatment team should try to make that possible; otherwise someone (such as a nurse) should be "assigned" to stay with the person throughout the interviews and examination. Someone who was attacked should not be left alone unless she wishes to be. She should be offered the choice of being interviewed in street clothes rather than in a patient gown. The examination and collection of specimens should be fully explained beforehand, and whenever possible, the person should be given choices in an attempt to give her back a sense of control. Maintaining a supportive environment, free from any judgmental statements, may encourage a person who has been attacked to express whatever feelings arise. Treatment includes addressing any potential for pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases, offering information relevant to those possibilities, and providing care for the immediate physical and emotional trauma incurred, as well as planning follow-up care. If there is a chance that the rapist is HIV-infected, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP, a way to reduce the odds of infection by immediate use of anti-retro-viral medications) should be explained and offered. Referral to a local rape crisis center may be helpful. These centers offer peer support, and advice necessary for adequate healing from the trauma.

A Rape Victims Outlook

Recovery from a rape typically includes the acute phase (immediate period of physical pain and wound healing, emotional reactions and coping mechanisms put into action), and the reorganization phase (occurring about one week after the rape and lasting months to years, as the person attempts to "get on with life"). Group psychotherapy with other rape survivors as been show to be the most effective treatment.

Rape and/or Sexual Assault Related Complications

Some women are never fully able to recover emotionally from a rape. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common complication. Symptoms include recurrent nightmares, intrusive memories (flashbacks) of the event, social withdrawal, depression, anxiety, and numbing of emotions. Cognitive psychotherapy and antidepressant medications have been shown to be effective treatments for PTSD. More than 50% of rape victims have some difficulty in re-establishing relationships with spouses or partners or, if unattached, in re-entering the "dating scene." Any per-existing psychiatric disorders may be worsened. Suicidal behaviors, depression, and substance abuse may develop or become more prominent.

Please Call Your Health Care Provider If:

• You have been raped: go to the nearest emergency room right away. Do not shower or change your clothes. 
   
• You were sexually assaulted in the past but never sought or received adequate care. 
   
• You have been raped (recently or in the past) and are experiencing personal or relationship problems.
  

-Birdy

Sexual Assault

*  Definition

*  Overview

*  Reactions of Sexual Assault Victims

*  If an Individual is Sexually Assaulted

*  HIV/AIDS and the Sexual Assault Survivor

*  Services for the Sexual Assault Survivor

*  What to do for a Victim of Sexual Assault

*  References

*  Bibliography

*  Additional Information

* In 2005, 92 percent of rape or sexual assault victims were female; those 16-19 years old had the highest rate of sexual victimization of any age group. A total of 191,670 rapes and/or sexual assaults were experienced by victims 12 years old or older (Shannan M. Catalano, 2005).

* Of female sexual assault victims, 73 percent were assaulted by someone they knew, and 26 percent were assaulted by a stranger. Thirty-eight percent of women assaulted by a known offender were friends or acquaintances of the rapist, and 28 percent were intimate partners (Shannan M. Catalano, 2005).

* Under 39 percent of all rapes and sexual assaults were reported to law enforcement (Shannan M. Catalano, 2005). Sexual assault is one of the most underreported crimes, with males being the least likely to report a sexual assault (RAINN, 2005).

* Recent research has found that rape survivors who had the assistance of an advocate were significantly more likely to have police reports taken and were less likely to be treated negatively by police officers. These women also reported that they experienced less distress after their contact with the legal system (Rebecca Campbell, 2006).

* Between 1999 and 2000, all rapes, 39 percent of attempted rapes, and 17 percent of sexual assaults against females resulted in injuries. Most victims did not receive treatment for their injuries (Callie Rennison, 2006).

* In 2004, there was a 50% increase in victim compensations paid for forensic sexual assault exams compared to 2003 (National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards, FY 2004).

Definition:

Sexual assault takes many forms including attacks such as rape or attempted rape, as well as any unwanted sexual contact or threats. Usually a sexual assault occurs when someone touches any part of another person's body in a sexual way, even through clothes, without that person's consent. Some types of sexual acts which fall under the category of sexual assault include forced sexual intercourse (rape), sodomy (oral or anal sexual acts), child molestation, incest, fondling and attempted rape. Sexual assault in any form is often a devastating crime. Assailants can be strangers, acquaintances, friends, or family members. Assailants commit sexual assault by way of violence, threats, coercion, manipulation, pressure or tricks. Whatever the circumstances, no one asks or deserves to be sexually assaulted.

Overview

In most jurisdictions, the term sexual assault has replaced the term rape in the state statutes. This was done to be more gender-neutral and to cover more specific types of sexual victimization and various levels of coercion. For example, some state codes define Sexual Assault in the First Degree or Aggravated Sexual Assault as physically or psychologically forced vaginal, anal or oral penetration - which has typically been thought of as rape.

Sexual Abuse, Sexual Misconduct, Sodomy, Lascivious Acts, Indecent Contact, and Indecent Exposure are all examples of possible sexual assault charges. Basically, almost any sexual behavior a person has not consented to that causes that person to feel uncomfortable, frightened or intimidated is included in the sexual assault category.

The law generally assumes that a person does not consent to sexual conduct if he or she is forced, threatened or is unconscious, drugged, a minor, developmentally disabled, chronically mentally ill, or believe they are undergoing a medical procedure. Some examples of sexual assault include:

• Someone putting their finger, tongue, mouth, penis or an object in or on your vagina, penis or anus when you don't want them to;

• Someone touching, fondling, kissing or making any unwanted contact with your body;

• Someone forcing you to perform oral sex or forcing you to receive oral sex;

• Someone forcing you to masturbate, forcing you to masturbate them, or fondling and touching you;

• Someone forcing you to look at sexually explicit material or forcing you to pose for sexually explicit pictures; and

• A doctor, nurse, or other health care professional giving you an unnecessary internal examination or touching your sexual organs in an unprofessional, unwarranted and inappropriate manner.

Reactions of Sexual Assault Victims

Since every person and situation is different, victims of sexual assault will respond to an assault in different ways. Many factors can influence an individual's response to, and recovery from, sexual assault. These may include the age and developmental maturity of the victim; the social support network available to the victim; the victim's relationship to the offender; the response to the attack by police, medical personnel, and victim advocates; the response to the attack by the victim's loved ones; the frequency, severity and duration of the assault(s); the setting of the attack; the level of violence and injury inflicted; the response by the criminal justice system; community attitudes and values; and the meaning attributed to the traumatic event by the sexual assault survivor (Koss & Harvey, 1991). Some survivors of sexual assault will find they can recover relatively quickly, while others will feel the lasting effects of their victimization throughout their lifetime. 

 

Possible Physical Effects of Sexual Assault

• Pain

• Injuries

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Headaches

  
  

Possible Emotional/Psychological Effects of Sexual Assault

• Shock/denial

• Irritability/anger

• Depression

• Social withdrawal

• Numbing/apathy (detachment, loss of caring)

• Restricted affect (reduced ability to express emotions)

• Nightmares/flashbacks

• Difficulty concentrating

• Diminished interest in activities or sex

• Loss of self-esteem

• Loss of security/loss of trust in others

• Guilt/shame/embarrassment

• Impaired memory

• Loss of appetite

• Suicidal ideation (thoughts of suicide and death)

• Substance Abuse

• Psychological disorders

  
  

Possible Physiological Effects of Sexual Assault

• Hypervigilance (always being "on your guard")

• Insomnia

• Exaggerated startle response (jumpiness)

• Panic attacks

• Eating problems/disorders

• Self-mutilation (cutting, burning or otherwise hurting oneself)

• Sexual dysfunction (not being able to perform sexual acts)

• Hyperarousal (exaggerated feelings/responses to stimuli)

  
  

In addition to these effects, a survivor of sexual assault may develop Rape-related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (RR-PTSD). According to the National Women's Study, nearly one-third of all rape victims develop RR-PTSD sometime during their lifetimes (National Center for Victims of Crime & Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, 1992). PTSD is a mental health disorder primarily characterized by chronic anxiety, depression and flashbacks which develop after experiencing significant trauma such as combat, natural disaster or violent crime victimization. RR-PTSD is diagnosed by a mental health professional when the biological, psychological and social effects of trauma are severe enough to have impaired a survivor's social and occupational functioning (Allen, 1995 p.169)..

If an Individual is Sexually Assaulted

It is important that the victim of sexual assault understand that no matter where they were, the time of day or night assaulted, what they were wearing, or what they said or did, if they did not want the sexual contact, then the assault was in no way their fault. Persons who commit sexual assault do so out of a need to control, dominate, abuse and humiliate. Sexual assault is the articulation of aggression through sex, and has little to do with passion, lust, desire, or sexual arousal.

Survivors of sexual assault, as stated earlier, react in many different ways following the assault(s).  

Whatever the reaction, it may be helpful for the victim of sexual assault to call a friend, relative, partner, the police, or an advocate specifically trained in assisting victims of sexual assault. Some prosecutor's offices, police departments, and every local sexual assault program have trained advocates who work with sexual assault victims and can provide a variety of services including:

Accompaniment to the hospital, during the rape exam and to the police station; 
 

• Information about reporting procedures and what to expect; 
   
• Legal advocacy and court accompaniment; 
   
• Emergency crisis intervention, counseling and referrals; 
   
• Counseling for the victim's partner, spouse or family; 
   
• Assistance in finding care for children; and 
   
• Information about sexually transmitted diseases, HIV and pregnancy testing. 
   
• Immediately after an assault, it is most important that the victim find a safe place, such as a neighbor or friend's house, police station, or hospital. If the assault occurred in the home, the house should be secured as soon as possible by locking all the doors and windows. If a survivor is hurt, it is imperative to immediately dial 911 to request an ambulance or have a trusted friend or relative transport the survivor to the nearest medical facility for evaluation and treatment.
  
  

Reporting the Assault(s)

• The decision to report a sexual assault lies within the discretion of the sexual assault survivor. If a sexual assault survivor plans to report the assault to law enforcement, it is crucial for evidentiary reasons that they do not:

  
  

• Shower, bathe, or douche;

  
  

• Throw away any clothes that were worn at the time of the assault;

  
  

• Brush or comb their hair;

  
  

• Use the restroom;

  
  

• Brush their teeth or gargle;

  
  

• Put on makeup;

  
  

• Clean or straighten up the crime scene; and

  
  

• Eat or drink anything.

  
  

If planning to report, it may prove helpful for the survivor to immediately write down everything they can remember about the assault including: what the assailant(s) looked like (e.g., height, weight, scars, tattoos, hair color, clothes); any unusual odor; any noticeable signs of intoxication; anything the assailant(s) said during the assault; what kinds of sexual activities were demanded and/or carried out; what kinds of weapons, threats or physical force were used; and any special traits noticed (e.g., limp, speech impediments, use of slang, lack of erection, etc.) (Johnson, 1985). Writing it down will not only aid the survivor in recalling details should they be required to testify, but it also gives the sexual assault survivor an active role in the investigation, which can allow for a feeling of empowerment and an element of control in a situation where control had previously been taken away.

The survivor who reports the assault to the authorities will most likely have to undergo a sexual assault forensic examination, sometimes called a "rape kit." During this procedure a doctor or nurse will collect the evidence necessary to establish that a crime occurred and, if possible, establish who committed the crime. To do so, the nurse or doctor will perform an internal examination (either vaginally, anally or both) taking swabs of any secretions left by the perpetrator and will do the same to the victim's mouth if any oral contact was made during the assault. In addition, samples of the victim's hair and pubic hair will be plucked from the root, and many times several hairs need to be collected so some discomfort will be felt. The pubic hair will also be combed through to collect any foreign hair, secretions, or matter. The clothes the victim was wearing will be held as evidence also, so it is a good idea for the survivor to bring along a change of clothes to the hospital. A series of photographs will also be taken of the victim, including anywhere there are bruises, scrapes or cuts. 
 
A victim who chooses to report the assault will probably be asked to describe their victimization in detail to several different officers and investigators. The survivor may also have to tell a nurse what happened, and may want to share their feelings with an advocate. If the case is pursued, at a later date the survivor will be interviewed by the prosecutor's office, and may have to take part in different hearings in which the victim is asked questions about the assault. The sexual assault survivor who plans to prosecute should know it may take months or years for a case to go to trial, so he or she should be prepared to talk about their victimization many times before ever having to testify before a trial jury or judge. 
 
It is the fear of intrusive and re-victimizing court procedures that prevent many sexual assault survivors from reporting their assault(s). In 2005, Under 39 percent of all rapes and sexual assaults were reported to law enforcement (Shannan M. Catalano, 2005). Many factors contribute to under-reporting including shame and embarrassment, self-blame, fear of media exposure, fear of further injury or retaliation, and fear of a legal system that often puts the victim's behavior and history on trial. A majority of states now have laws called "rape-shield" statutes, which prohibit any non-relevant evidence of the victim's past sexual history from being used by the defense at trial. 
 
There are benefits to reporting sexual assaults, however, which include being eligible for state crime victim compensation funds. If a victim is eligible, these funds can possibly pay for the sexual assault forensic examination; other medical expenses; one-time or ongoing sexually transmitted disease testing; psychological counseling and treatment; lost wages; and other services and assistance. 
 
In addition, many sexual assault survivors report that choosing to follow through with prosecution contributes to a feeling of accomplishment and empowerment because they are attempting to protect themselves and others in the community from being victimized. Many victims also report the attempt to put their assailant(s) in jail allows for a feeling of closure, enabling them to put the assault behind them (Johnson, 1985). Moreover, it is only by more individuals reporting sexual assaults that pressure can be placed on the legal system and the community at large to reduce the negative consequences on victims who report sexual assaults. 

Furthermore, if individuals who commit sexual assault offenses are not apprehended and prosecuted, they will continue to commit sexual offenses. One widely recognized study found that 126 admitted rapists had committed 907 rapes involving 882 different victims (Abel et al., 1987). That study does not account for the multiple victims of child sexual assault, incest, molestation or other forms of sexual predatory behavior which typically have a high number of victims and re-offense rate. Therefore, the more sex offenders that are apprehended and prosecuted, the fewer victims of sexual assault.

 

HIV/AIDS and the Sexual Assault Survivor

A concern of many survivors of sexual assault is the possibility of transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as a result of their victimization. According to the National Women's Study, 40% of rape victims were significantly concerned about contracting HIV as a result of the assault. Though the actual risk of transmission from a single act of sexual assault is relatively low, the psychological stressor of possible HIV infection is quite significant for the survivor of sexual assault (Gostin et al., 1994). If the survivor wishes to be tested for HIV, he or she should talk to a trained advocate or HIV/AIDS professional counselor about the testing process and options. In most cases if a victim has contracted HIV Disease as a result of the assault, he or she will test positive within two weeks of the assault. In some instances it may take up to three months for a positive result. 

If the victim decides to be tested, it is important to locate an anonymous testing site. To protect confidentiality, whenever possible avoid testing at a hospital or with a family physician. If the first test result is negative, follow-up testing should be conducted three months, six months and one year after the assault. Many victims also wish to know the HIV status of their assailant. Most states allow for testing of alleged and convicted sex offenders and disclosure of the results to the victim.

 

Services for the Sexual Assault Survivor

Whether or not a sexual assault victim chooses to report the assault(s) to the authorities, there is support and help for the survivor in most communities. The local rape crisis or sexual assault program's advocates will work with a survivor no matter what course of action they choose to pursue. Along with providing direct service to victims, agencies also conduct sexual assault awareness, prevention and education programs in schools and the community, and work closely with their state sexual assault coalitions to advocate for fair legislation pertaining to victims of sexual crimes. 
 
Many communities have established written protocols for response to sexual assault victims to ensure they are treated by all service providers in a consistent, responsible and sensitive manner. In addition, many jurisdictions have created multi-disciplinary teams, sometimes called S.A.R.T (Sexual Assault Response Team) programs. These teams usually consist of law enforcement officers, advocates, and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners or doctors that respond to crime scenes, hospitals and police stations to serve the immediate needs of the sexual assault survivor. Communities use this comprehensive approach to sexual assault victim assistance to reduce the negative aftereffects and trauma associated with sexual victimization by limiting the number of interviews and providing the survivor with immediate resources for assistance. 
 
Furthermore, many prosecutors' offices and law enforcement agencies have Victim/Witness programs that work closely with victims once they have decided to report and/or prosecute. These criminal justice system-based service providers in most jurisdictions can assist a victim in filing for state crime victim compensation funds; will file a restitution claim with the Court; will notify a victim of hearings, possible plea negotiations and court schedule changes; will accompany a survivor to various court proceedings; will explain the legal process and legal proceedings to the survivor; and will interact on the behalf of the victim's interests with the various attorneys, court personnel, and the survivor's employer or school. 
 
Many communities also have community mental health centers that provide psychological counseling, support groups and, if necessary, referral to psychiatrists for medication assessments. Most of these centers provide services on a sliding-fee scale basis, charging clients according to what they can afford. 
 
The effects of sexual victimization can be severely traumatic, and survivors generally find that time-limited or even long-term counseling is extremely important to their recovery. Even after initial crisis counseling, victims may find it helpful to return to counseling periodically when it becomes difficult to manage the aftereffects of sexual assault without further guidance and assistance. If the survivor does not wish to contact a sexual assault or rape crisis advocate or mental health counselor, they may want to talk through their feelings with a trusted family member, friend, or member of the clergy. 
 

What to do for a Victim of Sexual Assault

Sexual assault affects not only the victim, but the loved ones and family of the survivor, as well as the community. Family members and friends many times not only have to help their loved one manage the aftereffects of the assault but also have to deal with their own feelings about the victimization of someone they care about. Those that live with the survivor may become concerned about their security and may have similar feelings and responses as those the survivor experiences. Family members in some communities can find support groups for loved ones of those who have been victims of sexual assault. The immediate neighborhood as well may be affected by the victimization of their neighbor and become more concerned about their personal safety. They may respond to the assault(s) by establishing a neighborhood watch program or installing better street lighting. Professionals in the community who have direct contact with the survivor may develop protocols, or guidelines for response, to sexual assault victims to ensure the needs of survivors are being addressed within their respective agencies. 

 

To be of assistance to a survivor one should:

• Listen without judging;

  
  

• Let them know the assault(s) was not their fault;

  
  

• Let them know they did what was necessary to prevent further harm;

  
  

• Reassure the survivor that he or she is cared for and loved;

  
  

• Encourage the sexual assault victim to seek medical attention;

  
  

• Encourage the survivor to talk about the assault(s) with an advocate, mental health professional or someone they trust; and

  
  

• Let them know they do not have to manage this crisis alone.

References

Abel, Gene, et al. (1987). "Self-Reported Sex Crimes of Nonincarcerated Paraphiliacs." Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 2(1): 3-25.

Allen, Jon. (1995). Coping with Trauma. Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Press.

Campbell, Rebecca. "Rape Survivor's Experiences with the Legal and Medical Systems: Do Rape Victim Advocates Make a Difference?" Violence Against Women 12 (2006).
 
Catalano, Shannon M.  "Criminal Victimization, 2005." (Washington, DC: Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2006).

Gostin, Lawrence et al. (1994). "HIV Testing, Counseling, and Prophylaxis After Sexual Assault." Journal of the American Medical Association, 271(18): 1436-1444.
Johnson, Kathryn. (1985). If You Are Raped: What Every Woman Needs to Know. Holmes Beach, FL: Learning Publications, Inc.

Koss, Mary & Harvey, Mary. (1991). The Rape Victim: Clinical and Community Interventions. Newbury Park, CA: Sage Library of Social Research.

National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards, "FY 2004: Compensation to Victims Continues to Increase." NACVCB, 2005.

National Center for Victims of Crime & Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center. (1992). Rape in America: A Report to the Nation. Arlington, VA: National Center for Victims of Crime.

RAINN, Rape, Abuse & Incent National Network, "National Sexual Assault Hotline," 2006.

Rennison, Callie, "Rape and Sexual Assault: Reporting to Police and Medical Attention," Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2006.

Bibliography

Burgess, Ann. (1991). Rape and Sexual Assault III: A Research Handbook. New York: Garland

For additional information, please contact:

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

123 North Enola Drive

Enola, Pennsylvania. 17025
877-739-3895 (tollfree)

717-909-0710 (phone)

717-909-0714 (fax)

717-909-0715 (TTY)

www.nsvrc.org

National Alliance to End Sexual Violence(202) 289-3903
www.naesv.org



National Center for Victims of Crime2000 M Street NW, Suite 480
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 467-8700
Fax: (202) 467-8701
www.ncvc.org

Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN)
National Sexual Assault Hotline
2000 L Street, NW, Suite 406
Washington,DC 20036
(202) 544-1034
(800) 656-HOPE (4613)
info@rainn.orgwww.rainn.org



National Association for Crime Victims Compensation Boards(703) 780-3200
www.nacvcb.org



Centers for Disease Control and Prevention1600 Clifton Road
Atlanta, Georgia 30333
(404) 639-3311
Public Inquiries (404) 639-3534, (800) 311-3435
www.cdc.gov

-Birdy

National Hot-Line Numbers for Domestic Abuse and Rape

There is no excuse for violence against women. Yet every day, thousands of women are beaten, abused, raped, even murdered at the hands of family members, acquaintances, and those they love. 

Women who are abused are not faceless strangers; they are our neighbors, friends, co-workers, and relatives. Women who are abused come from every economic background and every age and stage of life. You may be experiencing abuse yourself, hiding the fact that you're living in an impossible situation because you're too terrified to reach out for help.

No One 'Deserves It'

If you have been abused, no matter what’s been said to you, know this: You did not deserve it. The abuse is not your fault. It’s hard to admit what is happening to you, but acknowledging abuse is the first step towards getting help and getting out of an abusive situation.

Just A Phone Call Away

There are a number of resources in most communities, but if you have nowhere to turn, two national hot lines can quickly connect you with local help and assistance:
National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

Online Assistance

If you need to find out more about resources and options before you feel comfortable enough to pick up a phone, RAINN – the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network – can link you to a national sexual assault online hot-line that's available 24/7. RAINN also has in-depth articles and detailed, helpful information on a wide range of subjects specific to women and abuse. 

-Birdy 

Rape and sexual assault 2

-Birdymckee



The study of rape and sexual assault examines the relationship of sexually disordered persons and non-consensual sexual activity with others. Rape is an assaultive behavior of one person on another, where the assault involves sexual activity and the behavior involves one person fulfilling sexual desires by using a non-consenting person.


INTRODUCTION: Sexual assault is the threat or actual act of sexual physical endangerment of a non-consensual person or legally defined minor child, regardless of consent. Rape is forced sexual intercourse on a non-consensual person or legally defined minor child, regardless of consent. Definitions of rape and sexual assault are further delineated by states’ criminal codes. The Crime Classification Manual (1992) notes that “(d)efinitions of what constitutes rape and sexual assault vary from state to state, resulting in marked differences in the reported frequencies of offense and behavior categories in different samples reported in the literature.”



The U.S. Department of Justice reported in the Uniform Crime Report that 89,107 attempted or completed forcible rapes were reported to law-enforcement agencies in 1999. This figure represents a victim ratio of 32 persons in every 100,000. However, it is significant to note that rape and sexual assault are the most under-reported of the index crimes. Aggravated assault, robbery, and murder are commonly reported at near incidence level, but sex-related crimes are often not reported or are charged inaccurately.
Married or cohabiting people may be victims of forced sexual activity but do not report the behavior of their partner, or if they do report the behavior, it is commonly considered domestic violence and the formal legal charge is reduced to simple assault and does not represent the true, sexual nature of the assault. The question as to whether a husband can rape his wife has been debated in many courtrooms. The cross-examination of the victim is often a humiliating experience, and consequently many victims choose not to press charges against the offender. Many women choose not to report forcible intercourse if they had previously been a consensual partner with the offender. It is also common that while children who are sexually molested by a parent are removed from the home under an order of child abuse, the offending parent is not charged with rape or sexual assault.
  
Sexual Paraphilias:
The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-IV-TR (rev. 4th ed., 2000) recognizes a group of disorders known as sexual paraphilias. The essential features of a paraphilia are recurrent, intense, sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors, generally involving nonhuman objects or the suffering or humiliation of oneself or one’s partner or children or other non-consenting persons, that occur over a period of at least six months. For some individuals, paraphiliac fantasies or stimuli are obligatory for erotic arousal and are always included in the sexual activity.

It is significant to note that not all sexual paraphilias result in sexual assault or rape, and it is the preference of the individuals afflicted with these disorders to identify consensual adult partners. It is also significant to note that with the exception of sexual masochism, the sexual paraphilias are male-exclusive disorders. However, some of the paraphilias are specific to non-consensual parties and children. Children, because of their age, by law cannot consent to sexual activity. There are half a dozen paraphilias that are commonly associated with non-consensual partners.

 Exhibitionism:
The DSM-IV-TR defines exhibitionism as “behaviors involving the exposure of one’s genitals to an unsuspecting stranger.” The nature of this paraphilia requires a nonconsensual relationship with a stranger; consequently, it must be considered a form of sexual assault.
 
Frotteurism
The DSM-IV-TR defines frotteurism as “touching and rubbing against a nonconsensual person.” A frotteur (usually a man) rubs his genitals against his victim, often in a crowded public place, or fondles his victim. Like exhibitionism, the nature of this paraphilia requires a nonconsensual victim, and consequently must be considered a sexual assault.
 
Voyeurism
The DSM-IV-TR defines voyeurism as “the act of observing unsuspecting individuals, usually strangers, who are naked, in the process of disrobing, or engaging in sexual activity.” A voyeur (usually a man) is sexually excited by looking (“peeping”), sometimes masturbating to orgasm either in the process of peeping or later, while retrospectively reviewing what he has seen, but he does not seek actual sexual contact with his victims. As in the previous paraphilias, the nature of voyeurism requires a nonconsenting person, and consequently is considered a sexual assault.

 Pedophilia
The DSM-IV-TR defines pedophilia as “recurrent, intense sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors involving sexual activity with a prepubescent child or children (generally age thirteen years or younger).” Pedophiliac behavior is prohibited by law. State statutes define the minimum age at which a person may consent to sexual relations. Pedophilia is by definition a violation of law and consequently is a sexual assault.
 
Sexual Sadism
The DSM-IV-TR defines sexual sadism as “recurrent, intense, sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors involving acts (real, not simulated) in which the psychological or physical suffering (including humiliation) of the victim is sexually exciting to the person.” Persons afflicted with this sexual paraphilia are continuously looking for a consensual partner. The practice of sexual sadism is commonly comorbid with sexual masochism. The DSM-IV-TR defines sexual masochism as “recurrent, intense, sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviors involving the act (real, not simulated) of being humiliated, beaten, bound, or otherwise made to suffer.”

People with one or both of these sexual paraphilias frequent bars and social clubs where sadists and masochists congregate. They are able to establish consensual relationships and mutually satisfy their sexual urges. In the absence of a consensual partner, or when a masochistic party refuses to proceed as far as the sadist desires, the sadist will force compliance and a sexual assault takes place. Sexual assaults that occur because the masochist refuses to continue to participate are rarely reported. When there are no consensual partners available and the sadist is experiencing intense sexual arousal, he may forcibly rape a non-consensual and stranger party.

RAPE:

The concept of rape has a historical and common definition of a man forcing a non-consenting woman to engage in sexual intercourse. The definition is no longer contemporary. Men and women engage in sexual intercourse with children under the legal age of consent and consequently meet the statutory definition of rape. Men and women also engage in same-sex relationships that may result in behaviors that may be, in fact, forcible sexual assault or may be rape as defined by statute. Some hate-motivated crimes involve rape and sodomy. Consequently, the entire legal and philosophical concept of rape must be viewed from an expanded, inclusive definition.

The Crime Classification Manual includes a taxonomy of rape and sexual assault that outlines numerous categories: criminal-enterprise rape, felony rape, personal cause sexual assault, nuisance offenses, domestic sexual assault, entitlement rape, social acquaintance rape, subordinate rape, power-reassurance rape, exploitative rape, anger rape, sadistic rape, child/adolescent pornography, historical child/adolescent sex rings, multidimensional sex rings, abduction rape, formal gang sexual assault, and informal gang sexual assault. The manual also classifies rapists based on motivations.

The taxonomic studies that describe the styles of convicted rapists focus on the interaction of sexual and aggressive motivations. Although all rape clearly includes both motivations, for some rapists the need to humiliate and injure through aggression is the most salient feature of the offense, whereas for others the need to achieve sexual dominance is the most salient feature of the offense. John Douglas and Robert Ressler, both retired Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents who were the initial founders of the FBI’s Behavioral Sciences Unit, identified four primary subcategories of rapists.

  Power-Reassurance Rapist
Referred to as a compensatory rapist, this individual is commonly afflicted with one or more of the sexual paraphilias, and these paraphilias are clearly demonstrated in the method in which the rape is preformed. These rapists are preoccupied with their particular sexual fantasies and commonly have a vision of their “perfect” victim. They are highly sexually aroused as they attempt to locate their “perfect” victim and may demonstrate voyeurism, exhibitionism, masturbation practices, and pedophilia. They are delusional, believing that their victim truly loves them in return. These individuals commonly cannot achieve and maintain normal, age-appropriate heterosexual or homosexual relationships and compensate for their personal perception of inadequacy by stalking and assaulting a younger or older, and weaker, victim.
 
Exploitative Rapist
The exploitative rapist, also referred to as an impulsive rapist, commits the crime of rape as an afterthought while committing another crime. These rapes generally occur when a victim is found at the site of a burglary or armed robbery. There is no premeditation in this rape, and the motivation is purely coincidental to the original intended criminal activity. It is not uncommon for persons to take hostages during an armed robbery or carjacking and then impulsively rape the hostage.

 Anger Rapist
The anger rapist, also referred to a displaced aggressive rapist, commits sexual assault because he is angry. He is commonly not angry at his victims, because they are usually strangers. Rather, the displaced aggressive rapist is angry at someone or something else, perhaps his boss, his wife, or just a set of circumstances. Unable to take out his anger at the source, he displaces his anger on his victim. The rape is characterized by very violent behavior, and the victim is commonly severely injured and may be killed.

 Sadistic Rapist
The sadistic rapist, also referred to as a sexually aggressive rapist, possesses the sexual sadism paraphilia and cannot achieve sexual arousal or satisfaction unless he is inflicting pain on his victim. The rapist believes that his victim likes his or her sex rough and consequently will demonstrate a variety of torturous behaviors during the rape. While the rape is violent, it does differ from the rape by the displaced aggression rapist. The sexually aggressive rapist will demonstrate behaviors that have sexual overtones, while the displaced aggressive rapist will demonstrate unrestrained violence, more violence than is necessary to subdue his victim.
 
Other Rapist Classifications
Other classifications of rapists include gang rapists motivated by retaliation, intimidation, or adolescent-like impulsivity. Persons who use drugs to incapacitate their victims are generally compensating for their inability to achieve normal sexual relations and are commonly personality disordered.

Sources for Further Study

American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-IV-TR. Rev. 4th ed. Washington, D.C.: Author, 2000. The DSM-IV-TR is the most comprehensive and contemporary description of mental health, personality, and sexual disorders.

Bartol, Curt. Criminal Behavior: A Psychosocial Approach. 8th ed. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Pearson Education, 2008. The author summarizes the theories and practical aspects of sexual assault and rape.

Dobbert, Duane, ed. Forensic Psychology. Columbus, Ohio: McGraw Hill Primus, 1996. The editor compiles significant contributions from distinguished authors on a variety of topics pertaining to forensic psychology.

Douglas, John E., Ann W. Burgess, Allen G. Burgess, and Robert K. Ressler. Crime Classification Manual. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 1992. The most comprehensive taxonomy of criminal behavior.

Goode, Erich. Deviant Behavior. 8th ed. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Prentice Hall, 2008. The author provides an excellent description of a variety of deviant behavior.

Effects of Sexual Assault

Effects of Sexual Assault

By: Thomas “Birdy” McKee

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Survivors of sexual assault may experience severe feelings of anxiety, stress or fear, known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as a direct result of the assault.

Substance Abuse
Victims of rape or sexual assault may turn to alcohol or other substances in an attempt to relieve their emotional suffering.

Self-Harm / Self-Injury
Deliberate self-harm, or self-injury, is when a person inflicts physical harm on himself or herself.

Stockholm Syndrome
Described as a victim’s emotional “bonding” with their abuser, Stockholm Syndrome develops subconsciously and on an involuntary basis.

Depression
There are many emotional and psychological reactions that victims of rape and sexual assault can experience. One of the most common of these is depression.

Sexually Transmitted Infections
Table of Sexually Transmitted Infections, their symptoms, treatment, and possible complications.

Pregnancy
If you were recently raped, you may have concerns about becoming pregnant from the attack. If the rape happened a long time ago, you may have concerns about a pregnancy that resulted from the attack.

Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Assault
The long term effects on survivors of childhood sexual assault and/or abuse.

Sleep Disorders
Many survivors of sexual assault suffer from sleep disturbances and disorders.

Eating Disorders
Victims and survivors with eating disorders often use food and the control of food as an attempt to deal with or compensate for negative feelings and emotions.

Body Memories
Body memories are when the stress of the memories of the abuse experienced by an individual take the form of physical problems that cannot be explained by the usual means.

Dissociative Identity Disorder
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), previously referred to as multiple personality disorder (MPD), is a dissociative disorder in which two or more separate and distinct identities (or personalities) control an individual's behavior at different times.

Suicide
If you are currently thinking about suicide, or know someone who is, please reach out for help.

Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate Partner Violence
By: Thomas “Birdy” McKee

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) occurs when a current or former partner uses behaviors or threats that can make you feel scared, controlled, or intimidated. A relationship in which IPV occurs is known as an abusive relationship.

Overview of IPV

IPV could include any of the following:

* Physical violence: hitting, pushing, grabbing, biting, choking, shaking, slapping
* Sexual violence: attempted or actual sexual contact without your consent
* Threats of physical or sexual abuse: words, looks or gestures to control or frighten
* Psychological or emotional abuse: humiliating, putting down, isolating, threatening
* Stalking: following, harassing, or unwanted contact that makes you feel afraid>

What are some relationship red flags?

Relationships can be complicated in general. A relationship with IPV can be overwhelming and confusing. Sometimes it can be hard to know if you have experienced IPV. The following questions give some examples of unsafe behaviors that can happen in a relationship.

* Does your partner control all of the family income and budget? Control your work or your schooling?
* Does your partner keep you away from friends and family? Control you by questions and threats about what you do, where you go, and people you see?
* Does your partner put you down, or make you feel guilty or ashamed? Blame you for the abuse?
* Does your partner make or carry out threats to hurt your body or your feelings, or those of someone you love? Threaten to ruin your reputation? Threaten to take your children away?
* Does your partner scare you by breaking or destroying objects, or punching holes in walls? Hurting or threatening pets?
* Does your partner physically or sexually assault you or your children?

How common is IPV?

You are not alone. IPV can happen to anyone no matter how much education or money they have. IPV happens to people of all racial, ethnic, or cultural groups, and of any religion or sexual orientation. An estimated 22-31% of American women report experiencing IPV at some point in their lives.

How might IPV affect me?

You may not realize it, but the impact of IPV can reach far beyond the actual or threatened abuse. Here are some general examples:

* Experiencing IPV may mean that you have more physical health problems. Women with a history of IPV report 60% higher rates of health problems when compared to women with no history of abuse.
* Experiencing IPV may mean that you have more problems with your mood. IPV can lead to depressed mood, feelings of worthlessness, anxiety or worry, feeling emotionally numb, problems with alcohol or drugs, and suicidal thoughts and behavior. Your health care provider may assess you for posttraumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and depression.
* Experiencing IPV may also affect your job or career. Women who had experienced IPV were found to be more likely to have periods of no work than those who had not experienced IPV.

Staying safe

Only you know what is safest for you and your children. What you may do to keep yourself safe may change over time. Whether or not you are in an abusive relationship, safety planning is something you can do now to help improve your safety situation. Some important safety practices are as follows:

* If you think that you or your children are in danger, leave the situation right away.
* Make a note of safe places within your home to go when conflicts begin to heat up. Avoid rooms with weapons (such as the kitchen) or with no exits (such as closets, bathrooms).
* Consider finding a code word to use as a distress signal to family members, children, and friends. Inform them in advance that if they hear you use the code word, they should get help right away.
* Pack a suitcase with items to take with you when you leave. Make copies of important legal documents (such as driver's license, social security cards, birth certificates, medical records showing previous injuries) and set some money aside. Hide these items in a place where your partner will not find them.
* Make a list of people and agencies you can call or go to in case of an emergency. Learn key phone numbers (such as the number for your local shelter, even if you think you won't need it)
* Talk with someone you trust. Even if you do not want to discuss the details of your situation, simply telling one person that you trust that you have experienced IPV and that you may need their support in the future can help.
* Consider talking to neighbors about calling police for you if they hear loud noises or fighting.
* Consider sharing your situation with your supervisor at work so that they might be able to help you with safety planning in your workplace.

What if I have children in my home?

If you have children in your home, here are some things you can do to to keep them safe and protect them from IPV as much as possible:

* Ask your children straight out if they have ever been abused or experienced violence. Studies have shown that in 40% to 60% of families where there is IPV, child physical abuse is also present.
* Develop a safety plan with and for your children:
o Tell your children about safe places to go in the home when conflicts heat up. Practice escape routes with your children.
o Teach your children whom to call for help in emergencies. Help them to learn important emergency phone numbers by heart. Very clearly explain to them how and when they should call for help.
o Some children may try to stop a fight or argument in order to protect their parent. They may get hurt as a result. Teach your children not to get in the middle of a fight. Teach them what to do instead when a fight occurs. (They could go to a safe place or call emergency numbers.)

Getting support

Many people who have experienced IPV have a hard time talking about it. Experiencing IPV can bring up feelings of shame and low self-esteem. These feelings can make it hard to seek help. Also, since violent partners often try to control and keep their partners away from their loved ones, experiencing IPV can make you feel alone. If you have been threatened, even indirectly, with harm to you or your loved ones, you might feel afraid of what could happen if you tell about your experiences or try to get help. It can take a lot of time and courage to decide to seek help.

Remember that although you cannot stop your partner's behavior (only he or she can do that), you can find support for yourself and your children. Stay connected to friends and family who support your health and safety. Also, many professional resources and providers are available and well-trained to help you in a private and respectful manner.

How do I know when I am in a healthy relationship?

Some people who are in relationships with IPV may not have had much experience in safe, healthy relationships. They may not believe that healthy safe relationships actually exist. They do. While no relationship is perfect, here are some behaviors that are commonly found in healthy relationships:

* Your partner supports your relationships with friends and family members.
* Your partner asks your opinion and respectfully listens to your answers. You and your partner can agree to disagree and resolve conflicts without fear of name calling, insults, manipulation, threats, or violence.
* Your partner accepts responsibility for his or her own mistakes, behavior, thoughts, or feelings and will offer sincere apologies and demonstrate change accordingly.
* Your partner trusts you and is also trustworthy and is someone you and your children feel safe with.
* You share in the decision making, the responsibility of family budgeting, and sharing the family resources to benefit all family members equally.

If you find that you would like to build or increase these behaviors in your current and future relationships, you may consider consulting with a health care professional about how to find support in doing so.

Support for children

If you have children in your home, you have likely worked very hard to keep them safe and protect them from IPV as much as possible. Sometimes parents hope that their children do not know that IPV is happening. However, in many families where IPV is occurring, the children are aware of it. They often report that they have heard or seen the abuse even when the adults in their home did not realize it.

Like you, children will be affected by IPV, even if they do not show it right away. After witnessing IPV, children often feel angry, insecure, worried, alone, frightened, powerless, confused, or they believe that they are to blame. They may have mixed feelings, both towards the abuser, and towards the non-abusing parent. They may think the violence is their fault, or that they are responsible for stopping it.

Children often show distress physically, so they may complain of things like headaches or stomachaches. They may have bad dreams or nightmares, wet the bed, act younger than their age, have social and learning difficulties at school, act aggressively, or they may withdraw from others. Some children will want to stay home because they are afraid of what may happen to their parent if they go out.

Many parents stay in a violent relationship because they believe keeping the family together provides children with a sense of security. In reality, children will likely feel more secure with one adult in a safe home than with two adults in a home with violence and fear.

If you find yourself in a relationship with IPV, here are some things you can do to support your children:

* Talk to your children and listen to them. Most children want the chance to talk about what they are feeling. Try to be as honest as possible about the situation without scaring them. Children want to feel as if they can believe you and trust you. Tell them that the abuse is not their fault and that they are not responsible for adult behavior. Remind them that violence is wrong and that it does not solve problems.
* Consider getting help for your children. Sometimes parents do not ask for help out of fear of being blamed or out of worry that their children will be taken away if IPV is reported. But often the most loving thing you can do as a parent is to seek support for yourself and your children.

How can friends and family help?

Friends and family often worry about their loved ones who are in unsafe, fearful situations. They sometimes wonder how they might be able to help. Here are some suggestions for friends and family:

* Listen to and believe the IPV experience of your friend or family member.
* Explain that no one deserves to be abused or battered by their partner. Explain that it is the abusive partner who is solely to blame and who is entirely responsible for their own behavior.
* Share that you continue to be worried about the safety of your friend or family member and any children in the family.
* Express that you care about your friend or family member no matter what. Let them know you will help support them when they are ready to leave the relationship or to seek professional help.

Information specific to veterans

Women Veterans and active duty military personnel are even more likely than non-Veterans to have experienced IPV. Among women Veterans, 39% report having experienced IPV at some point in their lives. In active duty women, 30-44% report having experienced IPV during their lifetimes.

Estimates of IPV committed by Veterans and active duty servicemen range between 13.5% and 58% and these rates have been found to be up to three times higher than seen among civilians.

VA has a number of resources available for those who have experienced IPV. At each VA Medical Center nationwide, a Women Veterans Program Manager is designated to assist women Veterans. This person can help coordinate all the services you may need related to IPV or other kinds of care, including help with safe housing or shelter.

In addition to the Women Veterans Program Manager, there are other VA resources that can help you. For housing or shelter, contact your nearest VA facility and ask for the Social Work Services department or the VA homeless coordinator (or point of contact). Any of these contacts can discuss what options are available in your area. Your VA mental health provider can also help connect you to community resources related to parenting, child, and family services.

Military sexual trauma survivors are at increased risk of having experienced other forms of violence, such as IPV, in the past and are at increased risk of future violence as well. Also, sometimes assaults that occur in the military are committed by current or former intimate partners. If relationship violence occurred while you were in the military, you can contact your nearest VA facility to speak with the Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Coordinator. Every VA facility has providers knowledgeable about treatment for the aftereffects of MST. Many have specialized outpatient mental health services focusing on sexual trauma.

Resources

The following phone numbers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It may be helpful to memorize them in case of emergency.

Call 911

National toll-free 24-hour Domestic Violence hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
http://www.ndvh.org*

National Sexual Assault hotline: 1-800-656-4673
http://www.rainn.org*

Reporting and Recovering from Sexual Abuse

Reporting Sexual Abuse

Question:

What do I do, or whom do I tell, if I am sexually assaulted or my child is sexually abused?

Answer:
Ultimately, the choice of reporting the sexual assault is a choice that a victim or a victim's parent must make. Perhaps the best course of action is to call a rape crisis center to explore your options and what the implications might be for you.


Recovering From Sexual Assault

Question:

If I am sexually assaulted I do not think that I could ever recover.

Answer:
Although the pain of sexual assault is profound, victims do heal. The healing process will be smoother if you seek assistance from someone, a therapist or a victim advocate, who has experience talking to sexual assault victims. Tell someone you trust what has happened; do not struggle with it alone.

The History of Megan's Law

The History of Megan's Law
Law Named After Megan Kanka of New Jersey
By Thomas “Birdy” McKee,

Megan's Law is a federal law passed in 1996 that authorizes local law enforcement agencies to notify the public about convicted sex offenders living, working or visiting their communities.

Megan's Law was inspired by the case of seven-year-old Megan Kanka, a New Jersey girl who was raped and killed by a known child molester who moved across the street from the family. The Kanka family fought to have local communities warned about sex offenders in the area. The New Jersey legislature passed Megan's Law in 1994.

In 1996, the U.S. Congress passed Megan's Law as an amendment to the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children's Act. It required every state to develop some procedure for notifying the public when a sex offender is released into their community. Different states have different procedures for making the required disclosures.

The federal law was not the first on the books that addressed the issue of registering convicted sex offenders. As early as 1947, California had laws that required sex offenders to be registered. Since the passage of the federal law in May of 1996, all states have passed some form of Megan's Law.