The apology mosaic: sexual assault survivors’ experience in receiving an apology from the perpetrator as a form of accountability

Abstract

Through the methodology of descriptive phenomenology, the purpose of this qualitative research was to explore the lived experiences of female sexual assault survivors in Canada who received an apology from their perpetrator as a form of accountability. By employing purposive sampling and four distinct recruitment strategies, a total of 16 women from across Canada participated in this study. Using a semi-structured, open-ended interview guide, one-on-one interviews were conducted virtually over Zoom. With interviews as the method for data collection, participants could freely share their incredible stories in greater depth and provide elaboration and clarification where needed. Following the initial interviews, follow-up second interviews were conducted with three participants to gain deeper insights into their experiences.

All interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed using the seven- step analytic method by Colaizzi (1978), through which four salient themes were identified.

Participants shared how certain pieces of an apology contributed to their healing while other pieces adversely impacted the survivors’ lives, creating a complex apology mosaic. As such, the findings contribute to the scholarly community by expanding the understanding of the specific apology needs sexual assault survivors have for their sense of healing and justice. Moreover, this research offers valuable information for practice and policy while highlighting areas for further exploration to enhance the safety, empowerment, and recovery of female sexual assault survivors.