Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Course (NMSAPR071-2.0) Practice Test

Survivors often hesitate to report incidents of sexual assault primarily due to the fear of not being believed or supported. This fear stems from various factors, such as previous negative experiences with the justice system or societal stigma surrounding sexual assault. Many survivors worry that they will be blamed for the assault, judged by others, or face disbelief from those they confide in, which can deter them from coming forward. This fear can be heightened in environments where there is a lack of awareness or sensitivity regarding the issue, leading to feelings of isolation and reluctance to seek help or make a report.

The other options do not capture the primary reasons for hesitation. While some survivors may feel unsure about whom to approach, this is not as significant as the emotional barrier of fearing disbelief or lack of support. A desire for others to handle the situation or a feeling of being supported by institutions may not reflect the reality for many survivors, who often experience the opposite—feeling undervalued, blamed, or unsupported when they attempt to report their experiences.