How to help a friend
Most
rape victims are suffering from PTSD which makes them extremely
dissoriented. At this stage they may do or say things which don't seem
to make sense. They are often unable to function on a level at which
they can help themselves.
It is crucial that those around them educate themselves to recognize the symptoms and help them get treatment.
The links below will help you begin to understand and help your loved ones.
How to help a friend- basic information
What can you expect after a person has been raped?
In
most cases these symptoms prevent rape victims from functioning at full
capacity and helping themselves. It’s important at this time for
others to give their support and help protect them.
How to help rape victims and the stages of trauma.
This site was recommended by the founder of hope for healing (on
a message board) with the advice that you can also order a paper copy.
RAINN how to help rape victims. How can I help a friend who has been sexually assaulted?
Understanding Rape
This site is an excellent source of objective information on rape. It has a focus on date rape but gives a good
over view. The format is that of a pathfinder.
"Rape
is a complex experience. The therapist, of a survivor of rape, should
be aware of different factors that shape the survivor’s experience.
However, the therapist must not only view the survivor in the context
of the individual, but also in the context of community. It is an
injustice to survivors, to not become aware of the societal and
experiential determinants that shape the reactions of a survivor."
What not to say to a rape victim.
Rape prevention- contains links to several sites with suggestions and information.
The
following sites were researched after I came to the conclusion that no
one is going to listen if we say "stop raping" to a bunch of grown
adults. The change needs to occur in childhood. Kids need to learn
that over powering people smaller than you isn't cool it's pathetic.
These sites help parents teach children respect for women (the opposite
of what they are currently learning). The audio samples are
particularly interesting. They are public service announcements you
can download and play for your kids.
End Abuse Campaigns: Reaching Men
Coaching Boys into Men
Boys
are swamped with influences outside of the home – from friends, the
neighborhood, television, the internet, music, the movies… everything
they see around them. They hear all kinds of messages about what it
means to “be a man” – that they have to be tough and in control. There
are numerous conflicting and some harmful messages being given to boys
about what constitutes “being a man” in a relationship. So teach boys
early, and teach them often, that there is no place for violence in a
relationship.
http://endabuse.org/programs/printable/display.php3?DocID=9902audio for endabuse adds to train boys not to abuse women.
program on rape education on middle and high schools