What do we really know about sexual assault—and what assumptions are getting in the way? This blog explores common misconceptions about trauma, memory, reporting, and survivor behavior, highlighting what research tells us about sexual violence. Learn why a trauma-informed understanding matters and join DARCC's upcoming Lunch & Learn to deepen your knowledge.

For many survivors, the first person they tell is not a professional, but someone they know and trust. This article explores how friends and family responses shape a survivor’s sense of safety, belief, and willingness to seek further support—and what supportive care can look like in everyday moments.