This content was paid for and created by Gluckstein Lawyers, separate from Xtra’s editorial staff.
If you were asked to picture the face of someone who has experienced sexual abuse or assault, who would come to mind? You might think of familiar cases of institutional abuse that have surfaced recently or the face of a celebrity revealing their personal story. It’s also possible that no clear image comes to mind, leaving you to rely on media portrayals or cultural stereotypes. What we may not realize is that many of us might already know someone close to us who has been affected by such violence. Statistics indicate that every one of us likely knows multiple individuals among our family, friends, or acquaintances who have faced or will face sexual violence at some point, whether they have chosen to disclose it or not. Alarmingly, the image you visualize might even be your own. Recognizing the vast number of faces that arise in this exercise highlights the pervasiveness of sexual violence in society. Yet, despite its widespread occurrence, sexual abuse often remains a secret crime due to societal reluctance to confront it openly.
So, who are the survivors? It is vital to understand that anyone can become a victim of sexual abuse at any stage of their life. While statistics illustrate that certain demographics are disproportionately affected, no one is entirely safe from this risk. In my practice, most clients are adults who survived childhood sexual abuse—a fact aligned with statistics showing that nearly 70% of reported cases occur in individuals under 17. Statistics are startling, with one in four girls and one in six boys experiencing sexual abuse by 18. In most cases, victims know their abusers well, particularly in scenarios involving younger children, where family members or close caregivers are often implicated.
Additionally, individuals from vulnerable communities, like those with disabilities, Indigenous or racial groups, LGBTQ2+ persons, the elderly, or those in institutional care, face an increased likelihood of experiencing sexual violence. With estimates indicating only six out of every 100 assaults are reported to the police, survivors have various justifications for such decisions, with past discrimination dampening their trust in authorities.
Common reactions of survivors vary due to the deeply personal and emotional nature of these experiences. Assault, irrespective of its form, equates to a breach of bodily autonomy, and while some instances result in physical injuries, all leave emotional and psychological scars. Survivors’ responses are personal and valid, with many asking if their reactions are “normal.” They are. “Normal” is subjective and can significantly differ from societal expectations, with individuals reacting uniquely to trauma based on personal narratives and circumstances.
The uneven power dynamics with abusers often dissuade victims from revealing their abuse. Feelings of guilt or shame may also lead survivors to unjustly blame themselves or downplay the abuse. For some, the memories of assault remain buried, resurfacing only due to certain triggers. Understanding these diverse reactions reinforces that there isn’t a “correct” response to such violations—victims survive using whatever means they deem necessary.
Survivors adopt various paths toward recovery and healing. Some decide to report their experiences to authorities, while others seek therapeutic intervention or crisis centers to cope. Engaging with addiction treatment services can often unravel the deeper emotional damage caused by abuse, offering new perspectives and healing mechanisms to surpass reliance on escapism.
For many survivors, sharing their ordeal with someone creates a powerful moment of empowerment. In my practice, being the first to hear their stories is an honor taken with utmost compassion and without judgment. Observing an individual reclaim their narrative fosters a complex interplay of emotions—relief, anger, sadness, fear, and determination—each integral to their healing journey.
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