Lessons from Recent High-Profile Cases: Three Ways to Be an Advocate for Assault Survivors When You Doubt Their Story

Over the past decade, high-profile cases of sexual assault allegations have sparked widespread debate, exposing the challenges survivors face when coming forward. Cases like those involving Amber Heard and Johnny Depp, Trevor Bauer, and false accusations in the #MeToo movement have intensified discussions about credibility, justice, and the importance of believing survivors while maintaining due process.

One of the most harmful outcomes of cases involving inconsistencies or false claims is the reinforcement of the myth that many survivors lie about their experiences. This skepticism contributes to a culture that discourages victims from reporting assaults, fearing they will not be believed. The key takeaway from these cases is not whether an individual lied, but rather that one false report should never be used to invalidate the experiences of countless real survivors.

If someone in your life shares a story of sexual assault, here are three key ways to support them—even if you have doubts:

1. Know the Stats

Misconceptions about false accusations have long fueled distrust in survivors. Some claim that false rape reports are rampant, but rigorous studies suggest otherwise. Research indicates that false reports constitute between 2% and 10% of sexual assault allegations (Lisak et al., 2010). This means that the vast majority—over 90%—of reports are truthful, even if they contain inconsistencies due to trauma.

It’s important to remember that trauma can affect memory recall. Survivors may struggle to recount events in a linear fashion, which can make their testimony seem unreliable. But these inconsistencies do not necessarily indicate deception; rather, they reflect how trauma is processed by the brain.

2. Know the Signs of Trauma Response

Survivors of trauma often recall events in fragmented ways. Neuroscience has shown that during traumatic events, the brain’s prefrontal cortex (responsible for logic and verbal ability) is impaired, while the amygdala (which encodes emotional memories) remains active. This means survivors may vividly remember sounds, smells, or sensations but struggle to recount details in a chronological order.

This is why some survivors may:

• Appear unemotional or disconnected while recounting their story

• Struggle to provide a detailed, linear account of events

• Change minor details over time as memories resurface

Instead of focusing on inconsistencies, consider asking sensory-based questions such as: “What do you remember smelling during the event?” or “What sounds stood out to you?” These questions align with how trauma memories are stored and can help survivors recall critical details.

3. Know When to Seek Objective Help

If you’re a friend, family member, or professional hearing a survivor’s story, recognize your limitations. Your role is not to be an investigator but a source of support. Encourage survivors to seek professional help from trauma-informed therapists who can help them process their experiences in a safe and structured way.

For those in law enforcement or the legal system, working with trauma experts can ensure questioning techniques are survivor-centered and avoid reinforcing harmful biases. The legal system’s handling of sexual assault cases often fails survivors when investigators lack trauma-informed training.

The Bigger Picture

Recent high-profile cases should not deter us from believing survivors. Each case is unique, and while due process is crucial, skepticism should not default to disbelief. Survivors who bravely share their stories deserve to be met with compassion, understanding, and support.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault and is seeking help, reach out to trained professionals or advocacy organizations. Healing is possible, and support is available.