Sexual assault is one of the most demeaning acts any individual can go through. According to Kaitlynn’s experience, sexual assault is psychologically damaging in several way. Sexual assault experience raises concern on our role as members of the society who are, in one way or another, affected by sexual assault. The lifestyle in campus where people interact greatly at personal levels that appear too intimate to count resulting violence as assault; complicates the scenario for the accused and raises the stake for all involved.
Sexual assault psychologically damages the victim. To begin with, it breaks one’s spirit like happened Kaitlynn, who was broken and reduced to a vulnerable girl despite their strength (63). An assault also breeds fear in the victim and makes them constantly worried about a repeat attack; this also happens to their family members who constantly worry about theory safety (Krakauer, 66). In addition, it causes psychological trauma that hinders realistic reaction to the crime (70). This makes it hard for the victim to argue their case since the trauma hinders them from making a reaction as would be expected. The process of investigation, questioning, and prosecution is also deeming, especially when there is disbelief on the part of the investigator as happened in this case (72). The victim also ends up being victimized as happened to Kaitilynn (77) where her withdrawal of consent is treated with suspicion.
However, on the flipside the psychological effects can also be seen to affect the perpetrator especially in cases where there is a small chance that they could be innocent. Smith was expelled from college due to his crime, which in the victim’s opinion was too little a punishment, but in the accused person’s opinion, was an unfair verdict.
This case calls for a clear guideline on policy. The definition of rape as sex without consent appears void to some extent since the evidence on whether consent was issued only depends on one’s word against the other. In this case, Smith appears to be oblivious of the accusations that he committed sexual assault. The law should clearly define what entails withdrawal of consent and at what point one can withdraw consent.
The case also points to the need to educate the public on what needs to be done in cases of rape. It also points to the lack in clear policy guidelines for handling cases according to the circumstances surrounding them. Campus scenario where residents live and interact differently from the rest of the society needs to be handled by investigators with consideration to these circumstances.
A personal narrative is critical in driving the point home. With real life examples to learn from and get detailed first-hand account, it makes the issue acquire a face of reality. In addition to make the issues more identifiable with, a personal narrative gives an insider’s original view point and brings in personal experience and emotions; unlike when a case is reported. Reported third- party narratives may contain prejudice, the reporter’s own feelings and emotion and may lack enough detail to allow for an examination of the stakes.
The case is a good pointer to what policy and lawmakers need to do to make investigations and prosecution of sexual assault more effective. The psychological trauma is extensive and this should be put into consideration when dealing with victims.
Works Cited
Krakauer, Jon. Missoula. Print.
