Nature and Causes of Secondary Victimization of Rape Victims in Bangladesh: A Review Analysis

Abstract

Rape victims often experience emotional distress, social isolation, and psychological trauma from their society and surroundings, which can be called the secondary victimization. Even though they have such an emotional burden on them, this secondary victimization is overlooked most of the time. The objective of this study is to describe the nature, causes, and consequences of the secondary victimization of rape victims with offering suggestion and strategies to mitigate and prevent these issues. This study is analytical in nature, and secondary data are used to fulfill the objective. This study found victim-blaming, stigmatization, and negative experiences with the police, court, and community are some of the natures of secondary victimization. The causes of secondary victimization include patriarchal attitude of society, rape myth acceptance, socioeconomic status, and the prevailing culture of impunity. The consequences of the secondary victimization include post-traumatic disorder, fears, phobias, anxiety, and ostracism, among others. These negative consequences disrupt victims’ lives, often preventing their return to normal life. Preventing secondary victimization requires transforming societal attitudes, enforcement of legal protections, increase of victim support, and promoting responsible media reporting to ensure dignity, reduce stigma, and foster a justice system that safeguards survivors from secondary victimization.