The Impact of Multiple Traumatic Victimization on Disclosure and Coping Mechanisms for Black Women

Abstract

The experiences and impact of sexual victimization are often complex, with recent research suggesting the need for deeper consideration of how sexual assault coupled with additional stressors may affect Black women’s disclosure of sexual assault and their coping strategies. Utilizing Black feminist criminology as a theoretical framework, we conducted a narrative case analysis of qualitative interviews with nine Black women to understand how multiple traumatic events impact their disclosure and coping patterns. The findings of this study show the need for scholars and policy makers to address these unique issues faced by Black women.