Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Practice Test – Comprehensive Exam Prep

The terms delayed, deferred, and postponed indicate that the victim chose not to report the sexual assault immediately. This can suggest that the victim actively inhibited the case, possibly due to a variety of personal reasons, including fear, shame, or a desire to process the trauma before coming forward. It also acknowledges the complex emotional and psychological factors that can impact a victim's decisions regarding reporting.

Victims often face significant social stigma and may feel pressure from their environment or relationships, which might lead them to delay their report. This active choice to inhibit the case reflects a nuanced understanding of the victim's experience, rather than suggesting a lack of awareness, external pressure, or insufficient evidence, which are implied by the other options. Understanding these terms in this context encourages a more empathetic approach to supporting victims and addressing the barriers they face in seeking justice.