A
female
age
30-35,
*ightstar
writes:Should I tell my family about sexual assault? I have been sexually assaulted several times but sometimes by family members- recently by a bro that is not dna related. I don't want to get the family angry at me. Should I tell? Reply to this Question
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male
reader, LazyGuy  +, writes (8 July 2008):
 Since it seemed to have happened several times with different family members, I have to conclude that this is not a well functioning family.
Sadly, too often, people even those related to victim will prefer to keep the illusion going that everything is alright and lash out against the victim for rocking the boat.
If your family members are the type who would not be on your side in this case I have only one suggestion, remove yourself from their presence and influence no matter how hard that is and report what happened to the police and social services. They can help you get out of there and to safety.
It is not normal to be repeatdly assaulted especially by family, you need to protect yourself. Find shelter, either through the state or real friends.
A
male
reader, IrishRogue43 +, writes (8 July 2008):
 You really need to report this, if there is any repercussions, ie, pregnancy, STD's the DNA is the only proof of what happened. Be aware though, there will always be the question of "He said, she said" if you follow.......
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A
female
reader, Tremor  +, writes (8 July 2008):
 I'm sorry to hear this has happened to you. And yes, you should definitely tell!!
Tell the family members that you trust, and tell the police. Sexual assault is a crime, and you are a victim. Who's to know how many other people they've done this to? People like that need to be caught, and by telling someone, you can make that happen.
Whether the family gets angry at you or not is unimportant - you need to do the right thing and report the people who have done this to you.
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A
female
reader, lotus mama808 +, writes (8 July 2008):
 I always wonder what kind of family would get upset at family member that has been victimized by another family member. Messed up! I don't know what kind of family you have, so my advice is to tackle this problem by the root of it. If your step brother is not really a threat, you should confront him. If he is a threat, then maybe going to your parents would be the best idea. The assult should not continue, and you have a right to live in a safe enviornment. If your family judges you for it, it might be a good odea to go to the authorities. Either way, this needs to stop. Good luck to you hon.
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A
reader, anonymous, writes (8 July 2008): Honey,
that's a terrible thing you're going through, and as a woman it will make you stronger. I believe that a family that loves you cannot be angry at you over something that isn't your fault..hang in there and to what your gut tells you.
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