Family's Responsibility in Victimization Reoccurrence: Definition and Implications
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Nance L. Schick, a sexual abuse survivor, was first victimised at the tender age of 12, an experience that would shape her life in ways she could not have imagined. Her story, marked by resilience and determination, serves as a beacon of hope for those who have suffered similar traumas.
In the seventh grade, Nance was sexually abused by a family member. This harrowing experience was followed by at least three more instances of abuse before she graduated from college. The recurrence of such experiences is a sad reality for many, a phenomenon known as revictimization.
Revictimization is a concerning issue, particularly among those who have suffered from mental health conditions, both pre-existing and those caused by trauma. Domestic violence is another factor linked to revictimization in children. The reasons for such a high recurrence rate remain under investigation, but factors such as age, mental health, personality, support networks, and the severity or length of violence may be involved.
A 2017 study suggests that almost half of childhood sexual abuse survivors will be exposed to sexual abuse later in life. This statistic underscores the urgent need for preventive measures and support systems.
Practical safety tips for preventing revictimization include avoiding high-risk areas and people, keeping social interactions in public places, staying alert, and taking a self-defense course. Feeling empowered, such as through taking a martial arts class, may also help prevent revictimization.
Speaking with a mental health care professional can help combat the effects of trauma and decrease the chances of revictimization. Mental health care professionals can help identify effects of trauma that keep individuals vulnerable to abuse and provide psychotherapy to manage feelings and behaviours.
Unfortunately, Nance's story is not unique. Jana, another survivor, suffered sexual abuse as a child and adult. Upon seeking intensive care and support at "Ankerland", she decided to confront her trauma and break the cycle of violence.
However, the journey to healing is not always easy. Nance's older sister, upon learning about the abuse, reacted dismissively and used it to control Nance. Families could contribute to revictimization without being aware, making the victim feel unheard, unsupported, at fault, or as though there's no point in fighting for safety.
When supporting a family member who has survived abuse, it's important to let them talk about what happened, tell them it wasn't their fault, focus on including them, not the abuser, and offer help with the recovery process. Confidential support for sexual abuse can be found by calling the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673 (HOPE) or the National Center for Victims of Crime at 855-484-2846.
In 2014, a violent assault by a stranger shifted Nance's life and gave her a voice. This event marked a turning point in her life. Nance eventually recognized she was repeating unhealthy patterns with boyfriends, employees, and clients and began setting firm boundaries.
Nance's parents divorced when she was younger than 2 years old, leaving her mother to raise three daughters alone. This early family instability, coupled with the trauma of the sexual abuse, likely contributed to the difficulties Nance faced in her relationships.
Trauma-related symptoms in adults include substance use, dissociation, low self-esteem, risky behavior, rationalization, learned helplessness, fear of abandonment, acceptance of violence, guilt, and reenactment. Nance sought help and eventually forgave her abuser, but new forms of abuse continued to occur.
Despite these challenges, Nance's story is one of hope and resilience. She is a testament to the power of the human spirit to heal and grow, even in the face of unimaginable hardship. Her journey serves as a reminder that with support, resources, and the courage to seek help, it is possible to break the cycle of violence and reclaim one's life.
