Some of these feelings are the result of society's myths about rape and sexuality. Victims know what society believes and worry about what others might think of them now. Sometimes blaming oneself helps a victim to feel less helpless. Being sexually assaulted does not make you a bad person, you did not choose to be sexually assaulted. Education about the facts surrounding sexual assault may be helpful in dispelling shame and self-blame.
Anger is an appropriate, healthy response to sexual assault.
It usually means that the victim is healing and has begun to look at the assailant's responsibility for the assault. Victims vary greatly in how readily they feel and express anger. It may be especially difficulty to express if a victim has been taught that being angry is never appropriate. Anger can be vented but in appropriate ways, or can be turned in, where it may become sadness, pain, or depression. Anger can be worked out physically without harming yourself or others.