Sexual assault is one of the most common forms of violence experienced by people worldwide. According to a report from the World Health Organization, about one in three women and one in four men have experienced either physical or sexual violence within the past year alone.
Sexual assault and abuse are more prevalent among LGBTQ+ individuals than cisgender heterosexuals due to discrimination and stigma that makes them more susceptible to victimization. Queer survivors may experience different kinds of trauma related to their gender identity, which can lead to various mental health issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-harm, substance abuse, etc., making it difficult for them to seek help or open up about their experiences. In this article, we will explore how queer survivors experience their trauma differently and what therapy approaches can be used to address their unique needs.
How do survivors of sexual violence experience their trauma?
Survivors of sexual violence often feel ashamed, embarrassed, and guilty after experiencing an attack because of societal attitudes towards sex and sexuality. They may blame themselves for being attacked or question why they were targeted instead of others. This internalized shame and guilt can make it challenging to seek support and healing.
The stigmatization of sexual violence means survivors may not be believed when they come forward, leading to further isolation and re-traumatization. Survivors may also feel that their identities are at odds with each other, creating a feeling of "not enough" and confusion.
A trans woman who was sexually assaulted by her partner may find it hard to reconcile her gender identity with the fact that she was violated by someone she trusted or experienced intimacy with. Similarly, a bisexual man may struggle with accepting his sexual orientation and believing that his assault was his fault due to society's homophobic attitudes.
How can therapy address unique issues related to queer and trans identities?
Therapists working with queer and transgender clients should create a safe space where all aspects of their identities are validated and supported. Therapists must understand and recognize that sexual assault is more than just physical harm; it is also emotional, spiritual, and mental damage. It is crucial for therapists to validate the client's feelings, acknowledge their pain, and provide a compassionate listening ear without judgment. This approach allows clients to express their experiences freely and helps build trust between them and their therapist.
Therapists can use affirmative approaches that focus on empowerment, self-acceptance, and validation rather than pathologizing or diagnosing clients. These methods help clients gain control over their lives and take back power from their attackers. They may include psychoeducational tools like reading materials, videos, or workbooks that explain how trauma affects survivors physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
They may engage in body-based techniques like somatic experiencing, which allow clients to process traumatic memories through movement, touch, and breathing exercises.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be used to help clients challenge negative thoughts and beliefs associated with their identity and trauma.
Queer and transgender individuals experience sexual violence differently due to societal attitudes towards sex and gender. As such, they require specialized care that recognizes their unique needs and provides an environment free from judgment and stigma. By using affirmative and embodied therapeutic methods, therapists can create a safe space where clients can heal and regain control of their lives.
How do survivors of sexual violence experience their trauma in relation to their sexual orientation, and how can therapy address unique issues related to queer and trans identities?
Survivors of sexual violence may experience significant trauma due to the violation of personal boundaries, loss of control over one's body, feelings of shame and guilt, and difficulty trusting others. Their experiences may be further complicated by prejudice and discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.