North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

Which of the following is a fear that victims might have regarding the reporting of sexual assault?

1. Fear of media exposure

2. Fear of not being taken seriously

3. Fear of retaliation by the offender

4. Fear of losing their job

The correct answer is: Fear of retaliation by the offender

Victims of sexual assault often experience a range of fears that can impact their decision to report the crime. One significant concern is the fear of retaliation by the offender. This fear is rooted in the understanding that, once an assault has occurred, the perpetrator may seek to intimidate or harm the victim to discourage them from coming forward or to punish them for speaking out. In situations where the offender may be known to the victim—such as in cases involving acquaintances, intimate partners, or even family members—this fear can be particularly pressing. Victims may worry about potential threats to their safety or the safety of their loved ones, creating a significant barrier to reporting the crime and seeking justice. In contrast, while fears related to media exposure, not being taken seriously, and job loss are indeed concerns, they are often secondary to the immediate and visceral fear of physical harm that can accompany retaliation from the offender. This understanding highlights the complexities of the emotional and psychological factors that influence the victim's decision-making process in reporting sexual assault.