Trauma
"Rape is one of the most severe of all traumas, causing multiple, long-term negative outcomes."
The Neurobiology of Trauma
" Explains why victim behavior often confounds police, prosecutors, juries, healthcare provider, and even advocates."
Trauma causes:
§Memory Function Change
§Story to come out in bits and pieces/fits and starts, in a very disorganized way.
§Hormonal Response
§Victim Behavior that includes unusual, unstable emotions; high, low or flat affect
What happens in the brain?
The prefrontal cortex – key to decision-making and memory – often becomes temporarily impaired after a trauma. Some victims also experience “tonic immobility” – a sensation of being frozen in place – or a dissociative state. This is a physiological response to extreme danger, yet can be perceived as “not resisting” the assault.
Long-Term Negative Outcomes (examples)
Mental Health |
Physical Health |
Social Health |
Other |
Symptoms of PTSD |
Gynecological issues |
Strained relationships |
High risk sexual behaviors (unprotected, prostitution, with strangers) |
Depression |
Gastrointestinal disorders |
Lower likelihood of marriage |
Unhealthy diet-related behaviors (fasting, vomiting, overeating) |
Anxiety |
Migraines/headaches |
isolation |
Using harmful substances (tobacco, alcohol, other drugs) |
Dependence |
Back pain |
||
Suicide (ideation & attempts) |
Urinary Disorders |