Why I Froze and Smiled During My Sexual Assault

So much self-blame can be avoided by really understanding how the brain copes

Photo: Sydney Sims/Unsplash

Like most American women, I’ve been prepared to defend myself against sexual assault and rape. I know to “never take your eye off your drink” and “don’t walk alone at night” and “if you have to, put your key between your fingers to use as a weapon.” Even…