A Case of Restricted Disclosure Due to Anticipatory Stigma and Shame In An 11year Old Survivor of Sexual Assault

Abstract

Sexual violence a common form of GBV may often be hidden by survivors for reasons such as, shame, and anticipatory stigma. Myths, can make certain acts of sexual violence appear acceptable than peno-vaginal penetration. The effect of non or restricted disclosure is that clients may not receive complete care from the existing health systems. We report a case of restricted disclosure resulting from anticipatory stigma by a girl child who was sexually assaulted by a male neighbor.