Which of the following is a factor that aids recovery for college victims?

• A. Financial resources
• B. Positive self-esteem
• C. Social withdrawal
• D. Lack of information about rape

Answer: (B)

A primary driver of recovery after college-based sexual assault is an individual’s internal sense of self-worth and capability. Positive self-esteem means believing you deserve safety, support, and healing, and feeling capable of taking steps to regain control. This mindset helps a survivor seek help, talk about what happened, access counseling and campus resources, and stick with safety plans and coping strategies. It also counteracts self-blame and uncertainty, making it easier to process the trauma and move toward healing.

While practical factors like financial resources or access to information matter by reducing barriers to care, and social support is important, the internal belief in one’s value and ability to cope directly powers engagement with recovery steps. Social withdrawal removes critical support, and lacking information leaves someone without guidance, hindering healing.