“It does get good again, and it will.” A Grounded Theory Exploration of Cis Women’s Journey from Rape or Unwanted Sex in Adulthood to Joy and Enjoyment in Sexual Intimacy

Abstract

Literature on the sexual impact of sexual violence has predominantly focused on dysfunction and risk, suggesting a hopeless future for those impacted. This grounded theory study explores how cis women in the UK are able to find joy and enjoyment in sexual intimacy after an experience of rape or unwanted sex in adulthood. Through a realist social constructionist and feminist lens, I map the dynamic processes they embark upon, including understanding, contextualising and communicating their experiences of sexual violence and sexual intimacy, growing through self-compassion, healing through open and sex-positive relationships, and finding sexual agency via casual sex, BDSM/kink or learning to appreciate their idiosyncratic turn-ons. An examination of this journey reveals the vital importance of individual and communal joy, hope and resistance on this lifelong, non-linear journey. These findings demonstrate the need to shift prevalent discourse around what one can expect after an experience of sexual violence and suggest new avenues for psychological therapy for those seeking a joyful and pleasurable sex life after sexual trauma.