Many lesbian sexual assault survivors experience a sense isolation, vulnerability, punishment, or paranoia. Lesbians also experience shame, because not only has her body been violated, but her lifestyle has been violated. Some experience a diminished sense of self, because our independence and self-sufficeincy are at odds with feels of vulnerability. Lesbians who are in relationships may have the additional complication of having a partner who was sexually assaulted at some point in the past. The partner may re-experience her own trauma, or project her own needs onto her partner.
Men are less likely than women to have received rape-awareness education.
It is important for everyone to know that sexual assault is a crime of violence, and not a sexual act. No one deserves to be raped. No matter where you were, or what you were doing, or what you were wearing, you should not be sexually assaulted. Rape is difficult for anyone to talk about, but it is particularly hard for men.