How to Respond/Support

When someone discloses to you that they have been sexually assaulted, it is important to provide a positive social reaction to prevent causing any further trauma.

Say This:	Not This:
I am so sorry this happened to you.	You should be over this by now.
Thank you for telling me.	I don’t believe you.
It took a lot of courage to share this with me.	Prove it.
This must be really tough for you.	Why don’t you remember everything that happened?
It is not your fault.	What were you wearing?
You did not do anything to deserve this.	Why didn’t you say no?
You are not alone.	You really need to report this to the police.
I care about you.	You really need counseling.
I am here to listen or help in anyway that I can.	Why did you or didn’t you (invite him over so late, fight back, call the police, etc.)?

Western Oregon University’s Land Acknowledgement
Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

Accessibility Public Records Privacy Student Consumer Information

WOU prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by WOU.

How to Respond/Support

When someone discloses to you that they have been sexually assaulted, it is important to provide a positive social reaction to prevent causing any further trauma.

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