| dc.description.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. | en_US |
