A survivor burden DB Responses. Week 4

If you agree or not and why?

Student 1. S. Likkola

Preventive measures to sexual assault in colleges first begin with education, by the provision of students with information about sexual assault on school websites and popular social platforms (Schwartz et al, 275-282). This will not only help protect the students from sexual abuse but also sensitize the student community about the negative effects of stigmatization on victims. The formulation of policies and procedures on reporting of sexual assault cases would help also simplify the process and the time duration, as a result, prevents the recurrent abuse by the same perpetrators. Hiring trained personnel and engagement of victim advocates, who would be accessible to the students, would help with the education and even the ease in reporting cases of sexual abuse. Since most students are ashamed of the abuse and afraid of the social stigma, anonymity and privacy of the reporting tools and by the personnel handling the cases should be maintained (Schwartz et al, 275-282).

Enrolling the sexual assault survivor into behavioral therapy and psychiatric session would help deal with issues of PTSD and depression with its associated symptoms. Seeking justice for the survivors not only helps them achieve faster closer and move on but also helps protect other students. Stigma results from victim blaming by society. Intervention would only be successful if the parents and friends are brought in to support and education of the society.

Student 2. J. Montalvo

Sexual violence is a serious problem that can have lasting, harmful effects on victims and their family, friends, and communities. The solutions to sexual violence, however, are just as complex as the problem. Many institutions practice the bystander approach, as it encourages those around to take responsibility and speak up when they witness a potentially dangerous scenario. Another preventive measure would be to host a mandatory training for campus staff on how to effectively report and handle sexual assault cases that wont result in the victim feeling unheard. Students should also be required to take an education and training course that talks about sexual violence and its long-lasting effects. Campus security should also be allowed to monitor dorm halls and 

 

Working with sexual assault survivors can be difficult but, is likely a rewarding journey to healing. When working with a victim of sexual abuse, I believe be approaching the situation from a psychotherapeutic perspective is the most effective way to work with someone. Long-term therapy can be especially beneficial in managing symptoms that may occur after the trauma. For victims of sexual assault on campus, a support group should be implemented as well to provide support for one another.