Coping with sexual violence as a post-assault formed couple: A dyadic phenomenological interview analysis

Abstract

Increasing evidence shows that survivors of sexual violence frequently experience relationship difficulties following their victimization. Little is known regarding how couples which formed post-assault cope with the impact of the prior assault. Hence, the aim of the current study was to gain insight into post-assault formed couples’ experiences in coping with the impact of sexual violence. To this end, an interview study was conducted with five female survivors and their male partners who began their romantic relationship post-assault. A dyadic phenomenological interview analysis revealed that sexual victimization is a dyadic stressor but is not always considered as such by the couple. In addition, disclosure is described as a potential bonding experience. Flexibility and creativity from both partners are required as they adapt to the post-assault impact. In addition, meaningful communication and considering the perspective of one’s partner seemed to be key to dyadically cope successfully. The current study also identified challenges couples had to manage, including caregiver burden and role confusion. Results suggest that interventions supporting couples in their continuous efforts toward mutual understanding can foster trust and growth.

KEYWORDS:

• Sexual trauma
• romantic relationships
• systemic trauma
• dyadic coping
• qualitative research
• phenomenology
• multi-family member interview analysis, dyadic analysis

Acknowledgments

We thank Prof. Dr. Jan De Mol for his assistance in developing the interview guide.

Ethics approval

This study was approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of the Ghent University Hospital on the 3th of September 2019 (B67201940809).

Consent to participate

Every participant signed an informed consent form before starting which included a statement on publishing in scientific journals

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

Raw interview data is not available due to sensitivity of the data. Code trees are available upon request.