Victim Blaming 101

Victim blaming occurs when a survivor of crime or trauma is blamed in some way for their experience, even by people who do not have any vested interests in blaming them (such as their rapist). Victim blaming can also be found in more subtle forms, such as when well-meaning people fail to consider others’ experiences and perspectives when interpreting events. For example, if you see a friend or family member struggling with trauma symptoms like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it is important to resist the urge to offer advice. Instead, listen as they tell their trauma narrative and provide a safe space for them to talk openly.

The most common victim blaming is based on the idea that the victim should have somehow prevented their traumatic experience, as if they had just been careful enough or behaved better, it would not have happened to them. This is often seen in cases of rape and domestic violence, where it can be seen in comments such as “It’s Megan’s fault for being so provocative” or “She could have screamed or done something else to stop it.”

This type of victim-blaming is also present in the courts when opposing parties mine personal details from a survivor’s life, to support their case that the victim did not act responsibly and contributed to the assault/crime. It is also prevalent amongst those who don’t have a direct vested interest in the outcome of a court case, such as friends and family members who are supportive of victims, as well as in the media.

It is important to understand the roots of victim blaming so that you can recognize it when it happens, and avoid becoming a part of the problem. This will allow you to support survivors of traumatic events in their journey to healing, and help end the culture of shame that surrounds victims and makes it difficult for them to seek help.

In general, a person’s willingness to engage in victim-blaming is related to their moral values. For example, those who have stronger individual values tend to be more sympathetic to victims and less inclined to victim-blame, while those with stronger binding values are more likely to do so. A person’s background, culture and beliefs can also influence their propensity for victim blaming.

Those who have experienced abuse are most susceptible to victim-blaming, but all of us can fall into the trap at some point. In order to avoid it, take the time to reflect on your own beliefs and values, and learn as much as you can about victim-blaming and why people do it.