Citation

Wright EN, Miyamoto S, Anderson J. Violence Against Women 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/10778012231156153

PMID

36794461

Abstract

Social support following a sexual assault (SA) may help minimize or prevent the myriad of negative sequelae impacting individuals who experience SA. Receiving a SA exam may provide initial support during the SA exam and set up individuals with needed resources and supports post-SA exam. However, the few individuals who receive a SA exam may not stay connected to resources or support post-exam. The purpose of this study was to understand individuals' post-SA-exam social support pathways including individuals' ability to cope, seek care, or accept support following a SA exam. Interviews were conducted with individuals who experienced SA and then received a SA exam through a telehealth model. The findings revealed the importance of social support during the SA exam and in the months that followed. Implications are discussed.

Language: en

Keywords

sexual assault; coping; social support