A review of 51 studies showed that negative social reactions to disclosure were linked with worse emotional difficulties, such as increased PTSD, depression, and anxiety. One of the psychologists who has been at the forefront of studying social reactions to survivors’ disclosures is Sarah Ullman from the University of Illinois Chicago, who authored the book Talking About Sexual Assault: Society’s Response to Survivors. I asked her what she thought the effect of having Epstein’s survivors testify might have on them directly and other survivors around the world.
“It can be empowering and healing, especially given that they are collectively speaking out,” Ullman said. “That is more likely if society and leaders recognize them with respect and respond in a positive way: listening to their accounts, believing them, honoring their bravery, and supporting their quest for justice.”
I also asked Ullman what she thought the public could do to create safer contexts for disclosure. “We all need to support survivors by listening, believing, and offering support,” she said. “Creating safe spaces for survivors may include support/therapy groups, moderated/closed survivor online forums, and anti-violence activist projects. This is needed whether survivors are those of high-profile perpetrators or not, and particularly for more marginalized survivors who are often less valued, heard, or able to receive support, supportive services, or any kind of justice.”
