The fear of not being believed , if there are no witnesses , is a major reason in the case of sexual assault.
<span>Together with a feeling of shame and/or fear of reprisal by the offender. </span>
<span>Defence of such charges (against adult victims) usually argues the sexual encounter was consensual, or seeks to prove the victim is someone of loose morals and/or went further than intended - or the charge is totally false/malicious. </span>
<span>It's often difficult to prove 'guilt beyond all reasonable doubt' and many victims simply prefer to avoid the publicity and possible denigration of their character. </span>
<span>As regards domestic violence - the young will often be under threat of even more violence if they report the abuse - as can apply to adults, particularly females who might actually still 'love' the perpetrator, despite the violence - which will often result from a drink or drug problem, the bully expressing 'remorse' and promise not to do it again. </span>
<span>Until the next time, etc.</span>
