From Dr. Sandra Mahkorn, a rape counselor who did a study on pregnant rape victims:
“Because it is likely that the victim already harbors feelings of guilt as a result of the assault, medico – social pressures which encourage and result in abortion could compound the woman’s feelings of guilt and self blame [over the abortion itself]… Perhaps as a result of their own biases and an unwillingness to deal with the more emotionally difficult complications of a pregnant rape victim, many physicians suggest abortion in this case as one would prescribe aspirin for tension headache… While on the surface this “suggestion” may appear acceptable and even “humane” to many, the victim is dealt another disservice. Such condescending [”quick fix”] attitudes on the part of physicians, friends and family can only serve to reaffirm the sense of helplessness and vulnerability that was so violently conveyed in the act of sexual assault itself. At a time when she is struggling to regain her sense of self-esteem, such a “take charge” attitude can be especially damaging. Often the offer of such “quick and easy” solutions as abortion only serve those who are uncomfortable or unwilling to deal with the special problems and needs that such complications as pregnancy might present.
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The central issue, then, should not be whether we can abort all pregnant sexual assault victims, but rather an exploration of the things we can change in ourselves, and through community education, to support such women through their pregnancies. The “abortion is the best solution” approach can only serve to encourage the belief that sexual assault is something for which the victim must bear shame – a sin to be carefully concealed… Too often the pregnancy receives the most attention, and the anger, guilt, fear, and low self-esteem related to the assault bills to be addressed.
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The attitudes projected by others, and not the pregnancy itself pose the central problem for the pregnant victim.
By no means am I attempted to conclude that pregnancy as a result of rape is a simple matter. Such a conclusion would indeed be naïve. This study does seem to suggest, however, that even though emotionally and psychologically difficult, these burdens can be lessened with proper support.
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Psychological support, especially from the woman’s family and friends, is enormously important. They should stand by her and say clearly that, no matter what the circumstances of conception, there should never be any embarrassment about [bringing an infant] into the world. There should never be anything but pride in that.”
Sandra Kathleen Mahkorn “Pregnancy and Sexual Assault.” The Psychological Aspects of Abortion, 55
Quoted in David C Reardon Aborted Women: Silent No More (Westchester, Illinois: Crossway books, 1987)
Read the testimonies of women who became pregnant by rape.
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