Common Reactions to Sexual Assault Emotional Shock. Initially, many survivors are in a state of shock in which they feel numb to the situation and may question their lack of emotions. Shock is the result of natural defense mechanisms in the brain that seek to protect us from severe stress and emotional overload. After a severe trauma like sexual assault occurs, it may be difficult to believe that it really happened. This is not a sign of mental problems but rather a common reaction to traumas of all kinds.
Some survivors are fearful because of threats made by the rapist during or after the assault.
Fear of society s reaction if the rape is reported is also a fear of survivors. Given that survivors often seem to be blamed for the assault, it is not surprising that they would be fearful of social reprisals or accusations. Many fear that they won t be believed by friends or family. Others may feel a generalized fear of all men or certain situations, because of the trauma endured during the assault. Because sex and bodies are thought of to be private and somewhat shameful, it can be emotionally painful to recount the assault or even to inform friends and family.