00:00New research reveals many sexual assault survivors struggle to recall key details of their trauma,
00:05challenging how their stories are judged.
00:08Trauma floods the brain with stress hormones like cortisol,
00:11which can block memory formation during an assault.
00:14Experts explain that victims' brains often catch up years later as healing unfolds,
00:19says Camila Alexander, a trauma specialist at Johns Hopkins.
00:23The Tompkins County District Attorney noted it can take years of therapy
00:27for victims to fully understand what happened.
00:30Psychologist Rebecca Campbell adds that survivors might withhold details
00:34because they don't feel safe sharing them.
00:37Memories of trauma can also fade or change over time, depending on recovery.
00:42Campbell says inconsistencies don't mean a crime didn't occur,
00:46but reflect the complex process of trauma and memory.
00:49This research highlights the need for patience and understanding
00:52when supporting survivors and investigating sexual assault cases.
00:56Disclosure, this video contains stock footage and content created or enhanced using AI-assisted tools.
