The Perfect Victim

We’re looking at what makes an ideal victim in the eyes of the law, and society, and who is more likely to be believed. Key Topics 0:11 - The week before Jane's case went to trial1:57 - The damsel in distress archetype3:17 - Nils Christie's ideal victim theory4:51 - Phil's story: when male survivors are dismissed8:00 - Ann's case: when victims don't fit the mold9:34 - Race and credibility11:03 - Vanessa's story: when assumptions are made12:25 - Lem's experience: becoming your own advocate13:06 - Mental illness and credibility18:40 - Why the "perfect victim" stereotype is a trap All sources, statistics, multimedia clips, and music credits are available on Substack. About The DefendantsThe Defendants is a podcast exploring how sexual assault cases move through the justice system… and why it never seems to work in favour of victims. We want to know what has to change within the system for it to actually work, and we are interrogating what justice means in the aftermath of trauma. This is a podcast where we figure out exactly how this system fails, why, and what to do about it.Support This ProjectThanks for listening and being a part of this conversation. This is a completely grassroots, independent podcast. Your support directly funds our ability to continue. Subscribe to our Substack for additional content and ongoing conversations. We also have a mail club! Get monthly artwork and letters to continue the conversation… offline, where the best communities are built.Make a one-time donation. Visit: https://buymeacoffee.com/thedefendantsSubscribe to this show on your preferred podcast platform Apple | SpotifyShare with a friend and help grow the conversationGet in TouchQuestions or ideas about the show? [email protected] on Instagram: @thedefendantspodcast | @jane_aster_roeMedia appearances: [email protected] for SurvivorsSA Survivor Resource Document - This document contains Canadian, U.S, and global sources to find guidance, information, and aid for survivors of sexual assault. Detailed descriptions of each resource within the document.Our TeamJane Aster Roe - Executive Producer, HostRachel Arundel - Executive ProducerKatie Jensen - Executive Producer, Editor, Sound DesignerJessica Strachan - Story ProducerCharlotte Gregg - Research ProducerIsis Madrid - Editor, Sound DesignerRachel Bromberg - Fact CheckerDawson Fleming - Production AssistantMichelle Crossman - Mental Health ConsultantLindsey Keene - Outreach CoordinatorCheryl Grossman - LegalDalton Higgins - PublicityKathlyn Gardner - EventsThank you for listening. Be kind to yourself and to one another.