Sexual Assault Advocacy & Crisis Line Training Guide - Colorado

339 Pages·2014·16.64 MB·English

Freedom From Sexual Violence
Sexual Assault Advocacy &
Crisis Line Training Guide
A Crisis Intervention Resource for Sexual Assault Service Providers in Colorado
Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault
1120 Lincoln St., Suite 700
Denver, CO 80203
ph. 303.839.9999 • f. 303.839.0019 • www.ccasa.org
Acknowledgments

This project was supported by Violence Against Women Act Recovery Act
Funding through the Office for Victims Programs within the Division of
Criminal Justice, Colorado Department of Public Safety (Grant No. 29-
RW-0-4).

This project was also supported by Grant No. 2009-ES-S6-0048 awarded by the Office on
Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions,
and recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not
necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.

Editor: Karen Moldovan, MAT
CCASA Program Manager

Staff Editors: Erin Jemison, MPA and Alexa Priddy, MA

Design and Layout by: Zander Renault (www.zrdesigns.com)

We would like to extend special thanks to all of the CCASA member agencies and individuals
who contributed input, guidance and suggestions for manual content. Many individuals
contributed to the success of this project.

Special thanks to Alicia Aiken, Joyce Aubrey, Nissa Baker, Elizabeth Collins, Shana Cox,
Lauren Croucher, Ricci Fast, Kate Finn, Peggy Heil, Kristiana Huitron, Anne Guarnera, Vida
Houck, Kristine Ives, Linda Johnston, Tim Johnson, Kelly Kissell, Bernie Mellinger, Tonna
Pallas, Andrea Rossi, Val Sievers, Sarah Sowter, Debbie Sterjnholm, and Margy Stewart.
These individuals greatly assisted in content development and review of this publication.

Suggested Citation: Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault. (2011). Sexual assault
advocacy and crisis line training guide. Denver, CO: Author.

The Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA) is a membership organization promoting safety,
justice, and healing for survivors while working toward the elimination of sexual violence.
S A A
EXUAL SSAULT DVOCACY
& C L T G
RISIS INE RAINING UIDE

___________

A Crisis Intervention Resource for Sexual Assault
Service Providers in Colorado

th
4 Edition, 2011

Editor’s Note: The first version of the CCASA manual was developed in 1987 by Cathy Phelps. The second
version was edited by Theresa Anderson and Anne Byrne in 1991. The fourth edition of this manual was revised
and updated from the 2001 revision of the CCASA Hotline Manual, edited by Nancy Wadsworth, Ph.D.
Introduction
CCASA Manual Introduction
Page i-1
Thanks for taking the time to read and use this manual! It was designed
specifically for advocates working in the field of sexual violence response and
prevention. Our aim was to produce a survivor-centered resource which can
function as a practical training tool for both volunteer and staff advocates. We
also worked to create a resource that was manageable in size and scope. This
manual gives an overview of many complex ideas and issues; we encourage
you to continue in your research on these topics. Throughout the manual, you
will see various “Recommended Reading” sections and additional resources.
These materials are all available to borrow from the CCASA lending library.
Contact our office for more information!

As best practices emerge, sexual assault response and prevention is constantly
evolving and expanding in practice and services. This manual will continue to
be a working document that grows and develops with this movement. As
CCASA creates and revises materials, your feedback and suggestions are
always welcomed and encouraged!

It is our hope that the information contained in these pages will enhance our
collective understanding of the dynamics of sexual violence and recovery. We
hope that it supports the critical work on behalf of, and in partnership with,
survivors of sexual assault. As you read and reflect on this manual, we
recognize that some of the content may be new and challenging. We ask that
you read with an open mind.

A Word About Words

“The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the
difference between lightning and the lightning bug.” – Mark Twain

Survivor and Victim

Throughout the manual, the text alternates between the words “victim” and
“survivor.” Some sections may refer to working with “clients.” In her
groundbreaking 1984 book, Female Sexual Slavery, Kathleen Barry is credited
for first using the term “survivor” to pay homage to the person who has lived
and survived through a dangerous, life-threatening experience. Anti-violence
organizations around the country have adopted the term “survivor” to
Colorado Coalition emphasize respect, dignity, strength and courage. We also believe it is
Against Sexual Assault
important to acknowledge that survivors of sexual assault have been victims of

a serious crime. Its effect can be a long, painful process of recovery. Thus, this
1120 Lincoln Street
manual often uses the terms interchangeably. As you provide advocacy
Suite 700
services, we recommend always listening to the language used by those you
Denver, CO 80203
work with and to mirror their terminology choices.

303.839.9999
www.CCASA.org
CCASA Manual Introduction Gender Binary System

Page i-2
The United States has maintained a social system that requires that everyone be
raised as a boy or girl, dependent on what sex individuals are assigned at birth.
However, two genders (or the gender binary system) does not take into account
individuals that may have a different gender identity or expression. CCASA
recognizes and celebrates that many individuals do not identify with the gender
binary system and instead identify as gender variant, gender diverse, gender
non-conforming, transgender or genderqueer. Unfortunately, pronouns in the
English language largely reflect a gender binary of simply classifying people as
“she” or “he.” This manual may use “she,” “he,” “s/he,” or “they” when
describing victims and survivors.

“Transgender” is a broad term describing many different people who express
gender in various ways. Transgender people should be identified with the
pronoun that corresponds with the gender with which they identify.

People First Language
The Colorado

Unfortunately, language and word choices have the power to hurt, isolate and
Coalition Against
oppress individuals and even entire segments of society. This manual strives to
promote People First Language. For example, in choosing words about people
Sexual Assault
with disabilities, the guiding principle is to refer to the person first, not the
disability. For example, say and use “people with disabilities” instead of “the
(CCASA) is a
handicapped or disabled.” Other examples of people first language include, “he
has an emotional disability” instead of “he’s emotionally disturbed” or “she has
membership
autism” instead of “she’s autistic.” Disability should not be the primary,
defining characteristic of an individual, but merely one aspect of the whole
organization
person!

promoting safety,
About CCASA

justice, and healing
Mission Statement: The Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CCASA)
is a membership organization promoting safety, justice, and healing for
for survivors while
survivors while working toward the elimination of sexual violence.

working toward
Vision Statement: CCASA envisions Colorado communities that believe and
support survivors, hold perpetrators accountable, and take action to end sexual
the elimination of
violence.

sexual violence.
CCASA’s Core Values:

Anti-oppression, social justice, and social change – CCASA recognizes that
sexual violence and oppression are intricately linked and is committed to
grappling with the complexities of societal power and privilege in order to
create inclusive policy and practices.

Colorado Coalition
Survivor focus – CCASA is devoted to listening to survivor experiences and
Against Sexual Assault
keeping their needs paramount in all aspects of our organizational work.

1120 Lincoln Street
Suite 700 Collaboration and community engagement – CCASA is committed to
Denver, CO 80203 creating a culture of collaboration with members, communities, and
stakeholders across Colorado. We believe that our mission is best
303.839.9999
www.CCASA.org
CCASA Manual Introduction accomplished through a process that prioritizes diverse community input,
participation, and partnership.
Page i-3

Advocacy and education – CCASA believes that in order to create a society
free from sexual violence, we must advocate for survivors and educate our
communities on the detrimental effects of sexual assault and the most effective
ways to prevent violence.

Safety and freedom – CCASA is dedicated to providing leadership and
resources for member programs and other sexual assault service providers in
order to ensure that victims and survivors are safe, empowered, and able to
move through the healing process.

Offender accountability – CCASA believes that in order to protect community
and victim safety, as well as prevent future victimization, we must place
responsibility for this crime solely on offenders. CCASA recognizes that
sexual violence is never the fault of a survivor. Offender accountability
includes the commitment to manage offenders in our communities according to
policies that reflect current, comprehensive research regarding effectiveness.

Ethical practices – CCASA strives to ensure that all organizational policies
and practices reflect transparency, responsibility, and integrity. We also believe
that ethical communication is critical to achieving our mission.
Colorado Coalition
Against Sexual Assault

1120 Lincoln Street
Suite 700
Denver, CO 80203

303.839.9999
www.CCASA.org
CCASA Manual Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1
Overview of Sexual Assault Pages 1–14
Definitions 1
The Sexual Assault Continuum 2
Re-visioning the Sexual Violence Continuum 3-6
Historical Perspective of Violence 6-9
Dynamics of Rape 9-10
Age and Sexual Assault 11
Perceptions of Rape 12-13
References 14

CHAPTER 2
Understanding Prevention in a Culture of Sexual Violence Pages 1–35
Socialization 1
Gender Roles 2-8
Institutional Effects of Sexism 8-9
Rape Culture 9-10
Primary Prevention 10-12
Bystander Intervention 13-20
Consent 20-24
Secondary Prevention 24-26
Building Healthy Relationships 26-28
Self Defense Courses 29-30
Tertiary Prevention 30-33
References 33
Advocate Spotlight – Lisa Ingarfield 34-35

CHAPTER 3
Perpetrators of Sexual Violence Pages 1-22
Sexual Offending Facts 1
Identifying Common Characteristics 1-2
Myths 2-5
Dynamics of Sexual Assault Perpetration 5-12
Pedophiles, Rapists, & Sex Offenders 12-15
How Sex Offenders Work 15-17
Sex Offender Treatment and Monitoring 17-19
References 20
Treatment Provider Spotlight – Kandy Moore 21-22

CHAPTER 4
Making the Connection: Social Justice, Sexual Violence,
and Anti-Oppression Pages 1-27
Systems of Oppression 1-6
Cultural Responsiveness or Awareness 6-24
References 25
Program Spotlight – Our Sister’s Keeper Coalition, Inc. 26-27

CHAPTER 5
Understanding the Effects of Sexual Assault Pages 1-25
Sexual Assault Aftermath and Reactions – Overview 1-5
Reactions to Sexual Violence 5-7
After Sexual Assault: The Marathon 7-8
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder 8-12
Other Secondary Responses to Sexual Assault 12-15
Self-Inflicted Harm and High Risk Activities 15-18
Substance Abuse 18-22
Therapy Referrals 22-24
References 25

CHAPTER 6
Advocacy Services for Child Sexual Abuse and Teen
Survivors Pages 1-29
Child Sexual Abuse 1-15
Adult Survivors of Incest 16-19
The Advocate’s Role in an Effective Healing Environment 19-20
Adolescent Survivors 20-26
Child Sexual Assault and Teenage Pregnancy 27
References 28
Program Spotlight – S.A.R.A., Inc. (Sexual Assault Response
Advocates, Inc.) 29
CHAPTER 7
Basic Advocacy Skills and Strategies Pages 1-40
Chapter Objectives 1
What is Advocacy? 1-3
Characteristics of an Advocacy Relationship 3-4
Relationships and Responsibilities 4-6
Caller Perspectives 6-9
Taking Notes 9-10
The Flow of a Call 10-13
Active Listening 13-15
The Three E’s 15-18
Ongoing Advocacy 18-21
Best Practices for Client/Advocate Interactions 21
Confidentiality 21-23
Mandatory Reporting 23-26
Self-Care 26-30
Personal Assessment for Advocates Working with Victims of
Sexual Violence 31-39
References 39
Advocate Spotlight – Bruce Cummings 40

CHAPTER 8
Advanced Topics in Advocacy: Understanding Setting and Context Pages 1-41
Why Advanced Advocacy? 1-2
Abuse of People with Disabilities 2-8
Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence 8-15
Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assault 15-17
Elder Abuse 17-19
Human Trafficking 19-22
Incarceration and Sexual Assault 22-23
Male Victim/Survivors 23-26
Pregnancy 26-27
Rural Populations 27-29
Providing Services to LGBTQI Victims 29-35
Sexual Harassment 35-38
Stalking 38
References 39
Agency Spotlight – DOVE-Advocacy Services for Abused Deaf
Women and Children 40-41
CHAPTER 9
From the Hospital to the Police Report: Advocacy Services
through the Medical and Evidence Collection Procedures Pages 1-27
Overview 1-5
Facilitating the Best Physical & Psychological Care for
the Survivor 5-13
Forensic Evidence Collection 13-14
The Sexual Assault Exam 15-23
References 23
Advocate Spotlight – Peggy Moore-McCoy and Maj. Alisa Englert 24-27

CHAPTER 10
Legal Procedures: Finding a Map Through Foreign Territory Pages 1-39
Rights of Victims of Violent Crime in Colorado 2-6
Law Enforcement Responsibilities 7-10
Prosecution Procedures 10-17
Civil Suit 17
Criminal Justice Glossary 17-19
Advocates and Law Enforcement: Oil and Water? 19-37
References 37
Advocate Spotlight – Herminia Martinez 38-39

CHAPTER 11
Selection of Statutes Pages 1-26
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to Sexual Assault 1-5
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to Child Sexual Abuse,
Sexual Exploitation, and Incest 5-9
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to Child Abuse, Enticement
of a Child and Internet Luring 9-12
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to Public Indecency and
Indecent Exposure 13-14
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to Perpetrators 14-15
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to the Sex Offender
Management Board 16-17
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to the Statute of Limitations 17-20
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to Evidence 20-24
Colorado Revised Statutes Pertaining to Stalking 24-26