It's likely that you never thought sexual violence could happen to you. We are socialized to see sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking primarily as crimes against women. Sexual violence can happen to individuals from all walks of life. Survivors may feel rage, shame, guilt, powerlessness, helplessness, concern regarding personal safety, and/or symptoms of physical illness.
Feeling responsible is often a reaction to sexual violence. However, sexual violence is never the responsibility of the survivor. We encourage you to come forward and obtain the resources and support that you need.
Campus Advocate / Sexual Assault Crisis Counselor: dasmith@chapman.edu