OSTRG-PUB-2021-011: Reconciling Trauma: Arousal & Pleasure in Female Sexual Abuse Survivors

Date: 2021-12-09
Document Number: OSTRG-PUB-2021-011
Authors: M. Kovac, J.Kroon
Affiliation: Open Sexual Trauma Research Group (OSTRG)

Summary:
Challenging the pervasive societal narrative that sexual abuse is characterized only by fear and pain, this paper presents findings from a study of 38 female survivors. Several of them reported having experienced involuntary arousal, pleasure, or orgasms during their abuse. Through quantitative data and survivor testimony, we show that these reactions are not uncommon, but should never be confused with consent. We examine the long-term effects on survivors' sexual identity and healing. This research advocates for trauma-informed care that validates these complex experiences, and public education that dismantles harmful myths about consent and bodily responses.

Abstract:
This exploratory mixed-methods study examined 38 female survivors' reported experiences of involuntary physical arousal, psychological pleasure, and even orgasm during abuse events, challenging the pervasive societal narrative that sexual abuse is characterized solely by fear and pain. Quantitative data revealed that a significant portion of the sample reported experiencing physical arousal (86.8%), psychological pleasure (44.7%), and orgasm (28.9%) at some frequency during the abuse. Analysis of the qualitative data on orgasmic experiences revealed a range of subjective responses, including descriptions using terms that in other contexts might be associated with physical pleasure or intensity, even when occurring in a nonconsensual and traumatic setting. Notably, these involuntary responses occurred despite an overwhelming lack of consent, with 73.7% of respondents reporting that they never felt consented. In addition, these responses often coincided with active resistance, with 65.8% of respondents reporting resistance at some point. The experience of these complex and unwanted responses contributed significantly to shame, guilt, and self-blame; difficulty processing trauma; inhibited disclosure; and long-term challenges with sexual health and identity. The present findings underscore the notion that physical arousal, psychological pleasure, and orgasm during abuse do not indicate consent, but rather are involuntary responses. These findings underscore the need for trauma-informed support that validates these complex experiences and for nuanced public education that dismantles harmful myths about consent and physical responses.

Keywords: Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Female Sexuality, Arousal, Pleasure, Orgasm, Consent, Survivors, Healing, Trauma-Informed Care.

Online link: www.academia.edu -> OSTRG-PUB-2021-011
PDF download: OSTRG-PUB-2021-011 - Reconciling Trauma_ Arousal & Pleasure in Female Sexual Abuse Survivors.pdf