Pathways Courses - It Won't Happen to Me:

It Won't Happen to Me:
Substance Abuse-Related Violence Against Women for Anyone Concerned About The Issues

Module 8: After a Rape or Sexual Assault - Page 3 of 10

Do not blame her. Rape is never the victim's fault. Most daughters do not tell their parents about rape for fear of their reaction. Be grateful that she trusts you enough to tell you. Be helpful and loving. Never say, "I told you so," which puts your need to be right over her feelings.
Believe her. Many people will not believe children for various reasons. Let her see and know that you believe her.
Be supportive. Let her talk when she is ready. Listen to her. There are many things going through her mind and she needs time to sort them out. What she needs is a friend first and a parent second. If she needs to be held, hold her. If she needs to be left alone, respect her privacy.
Let her make choices. Someone just took control away from her. She needs to be able to make some decisions for herself right now. It may take some time for her to "get back to normal," so respect that time. It is not your place to rush her or to tell anyone else what happened. If you want to press charges, make sure you know what your motivation is. It might not be what is right for your daughter. Try not to "rescue" her from her pain. She needs to find the inner strength to work through what happened. Only in this way will she regain her strength and self-esteem.
Seek professional advice from a local rape crisis center where you can get help sorting through the confusing feelings you may have.