A constructivist grounded theory exploration of wellbeing in female adult sexual assault victims/survivors

The purpose of this constructivist grounded theory study was to explore the perceptions of adult female sexual assault victims/survivors about their wellbeing: their definitions and descriptions of wellbeing; the impact of the assault on wellbeing; and barriers and facilitators to achieving wellbeing following assault. Feminist theory provided the sensitizing concepts for this research. Data were collected via semistructured interviews with 22 adult women who had experienced at least one episode of sexual assault at or above the age of 18. Data analysis included first, second, and third level coding techniques, memo writing, and data displays. Participants experienced negative effects to their overall wellbeing as well as to the wellbeing domains of physical, mental, career/economic/financial, relational, and spiritual. The findings of this study support wellbeing as a core category encompassing the five domains listed above, also described in the literature. The participants also confirmed and expounded in depth on the dynamic, interactive, and overlapping nature of each of the domains of wellbeing and their ability to enhance, maintain, or worsen health status and overall wellbeing. In addition, a new construct emerged that cut across all domains, that of safety, and the overarching significance of culture was recognized. Additional research should continue to explore wellbeing in diverse populations of sexual assault victims/survivors. Additional research should also explore the significance and function of safety in sexual assault victims/survivors. Formal and informal supporters of sexual assault victims/survivors should be aware of the complex ways that sexual assault affects women. In addition, they should be aware of helpful resources for sexual assault victims/survivors.