Even though the number of victims coming forward to file reports has increased, there are still major roadblocks preventing survivors from pressing formal charges. According to Julie Chapin, assistant director of counseling, there are multiple reasons that victims choose to remain silent. They are afraid their confidentiality will be broken. Cox agrees, adding that the size of the DePauw community is also a primary factor. The single most significant obstacle which prevents women from pressing charges is the smallness of the community.
Survivors are also concerned with ensuring their privacy and confidentiality.
I can control what information comes out of my office. I cannot control what friends say. Promoting awareness of sexual assault within DePauw's community is an issue of growing concern among students and members of the administration. Both Cox and Chapin say they believe this increased attention is not unique to DePauw's campus, but is part of a larger, national trend. I believe that campuses across the country are becoming increasingly aware.