"That kind of information is crucial to get across": co-developing a sexual assault support website with survivors and support providers

Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being. 2025 Dec 31;20(1):2592404. doi: 10.1080/17482631.2025.2592404. Epub 2025 Nov 28.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Although eHealth can play a vital role in the lives of people affected by sexual violence, research indicates that eHealth applications often do not meet these users' needs.

METHODS: This study used action research to develop a national website in Denmark for sexual assault support. This process involved collaboration between employees at a sexual assault center and university researchers, as well as meetings and interviews with representatives from website user groups (survivors and support providers).

RESULTS: Formal interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results indicate that websites are used to define sexual assault (Theme 1), that information to counter rape myths is essential (Theme 2), that all those affected by sexual violence must be addressed, not just survivors (Theme 3), that wording and labels matter (Theme 4), and that interactive materials are desired (Theme 5). A new sexual assault website was developed, resulting in a more contemporary, accessible, and inclusive website (e.g., by broadening and diversifying descriptions of sexual violence; by addressing the pain and suffering experienced by survivors' loved ones).

DISCUSSION: This study illustrates that action research in this area is feasible and that survivors and support providers can contribute significantly to the creation of new interventions.

PMID:41316533 | DOI:10.1080/17482631.2025.2592404