Psychoeducational support group for significant others of sexual assault survivors

Includes bibliographical references (pages 59-61)Sexual assault is an extensive problem that leaves lasting emotional and psychological effects on thousands of individuals every year. In many cases, the survivor of the assault is not the only person impacted by the traumatic event. Friends, and especially family, can be deeply effected by the sexual assault as well. Significant others of survivors, such as husbands, wives, boyfriends and girlfriends are often overlooked in the aftermath of an assault. While the survivor may seek treatment, more then often significant others of survivors are left to process and understand the event, as well as the repercussions alone, without support or any clarification. Research has shown that psychoeducational support groups for significant others of sexual assault survivors can be an effective way to provide support and assist significant others of sexual assault survivors begin their healing process. The intention of this graduate project is to create a psychoeducational support group for significant others of sexual assault survivors. The curriculum will be used at Valley Trauma Center by Marriage Family Therapist Trainees and Interns while working with the significant other population