Moral Injury
Moral injury is defined as a "profound sense of shame, guilt, and self-loathing that can arise from experiencing an event that violates deeply held beliefs about right and wrong". It occurs when someone experiences trauma that challenges their values and moral code, leading to feelings of betrayal, disillusionment, and alienation. This type of psychological distress has been widely studied in military veterans, but it also occurs in survivors of assault and abuse. Survivors of assault often experience moral injuries due to the perceived loss of control, betrayal of trust, and violation of personal boundaries. The resulting feelings of guilt and shame may lead to difficulties in interpersonal relationships and ethical decision-making, which can have long-lasting effects on mental health.
Relationships
The impact of moral injury on relational dynamics varies depending on the context and nature of the relationship. Some survivors may withdraw or isolate themselves from others, while some may seek out support from family and friends. Others may become hypervigilant or paranoid, fearing further violations or betrayals. Survivors may also experience changes in their sexual behaviors, including increased risk-taking, decreased pleasure, and difficulty maintaining intimacy with partners. These behaviors may be motivated by a desire for validation, revenge, or punishment, or they may reflect deeper issues related to trust and attachment.
Decision-Making
Survivors of assault may struggle with making ethical decisions regarding consent, boundaries, and self-care. They may doubt their own judgment and question their ability to make sound decisions in the future. This can lead to feelings of powerlessness and helplessness, as well as confusion about what is right or wrong. Survivors may also engage in unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse, risky behavior, or self-harm, which can further complicate their decision-making processes.
Treatment
Treatment for moral injury typically involves addressing the underlying beliefs that were challenged during the traumatic event. Therapists may use cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to help individuals challenge negative thoughts and develop more adaptive beliefs about themselves and the world around them. Other interventions may focus on improving communication skills and building healthier relationships. Support groups and peer support can also be helpful in providing survivors with a sense of community and connection.
What role does moral injury play in shaping survivors' relational and ethical decision-making after assault?
Moral injury has been shown to have profound effects on survivors of sexual violence. It can cause feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame that may persist long after the physical injuries have healed. This can lead to difficulties with intimacy, trust, and other important interpersonal relationships. Survivors who experience moral injury may also feel a deep sense of violation, which can affect their ability to make ethical decisions in future situations.