The multi-level nature and extent of secondary victimization among adult, female rape victims at the RK Khan Thutuzela Care Center.

Abstract

Rape is a traumatic and life-threatening experience, and one that cannot be easily forgotten by the survivor. It leaves the rape survivor full of fear, doubt, and anger. The resulting fear and anger also ripple through to family members, friends, and the community. Women's and girls' mental and physical health have been shown to be negatively impacted by gender-based violence, which is widely acknowledged around the world. This research study aimed to encapsulate the nature and extent of secondary victimization amongst adult, female rape victims at the RK Khan Thutuzela Care centre, and their respective social systems using Bronfenbrenner’s Systems theory as a basis. A qualitative methodological approach was applied, and data was collected in a descriptive manner through semi-structured question-interviews. The study found that the participants' knowledge and comprehension of the concept of secondary victimization were limited. The data also demonstrated that while there were a variety of impacts felt by all participants, all the participant’s do experience secondary victimization and its effects, on various levels over a prolonged period of time. There is currently no structure or procedure in place to help victims cope with all these extended aftereffects so the researcher proposes the need for a multi-faceted approach toward rape victim empowerment.