Pain and trauma is associated with the experience of rape. There is also a social stigma of shame related to rape, especially in the case of the survivor of acquaintance rape. This enhanced feeling of shame may lead to a hesitancy to disclose to others the experience of the rape. If people are made aware of the need to break down rape myths and the need for communication, it is likely that survivor's of rape and their partners will build more trust and intimacy. Therapists might want to counsel survivors and their partners, in both joint and single sessions.
Rape is often a silent tragedy.
Many survivors hide their feelings, because shame is connected to the experience of rape. Therapists should encourage communication between survivors and people who are significant in their lives. More should be done in this society to break the pattern of shame that is built around rape. Silence is harmful to the survivor and to significant others. If the therapist can facilitate meaningful communication between survivors and others in their lives, it is likely that trust will begin to grow.