How to Support Survivors of Sexual Violence Online
April 5, 2021
National Sexual Violence Resource Center
“What does online victim-blaming look like?
In our society, it is not difficult to find instances of victim-blaming online. If you spend any time on the internet, especially in the #MeToo era, you’ve likely seen the comment section under a post about sexual violence. Many commenters offer words of encouragement — supporting survivors, wishing them a safe recovery from trauma, or applauding their bravery for coming forward.”
Inevitably, you will encounter victim-blaming statements like:
- “Why didn’t you come forward sooner/immediately report the assault?”
- “You just want attention or a payday.”
- “You had to know what would happen if you went to his apartment/hotel room.”
- “How were you dressed at the time of the assault?”
- “How much had you had to drink?”
- “You shouldn’t have been out alone that late.”
