- Genuineness: Be Yourself. It is more helpful to the woman if
you express yourself honestly and openly than if you present
yourself with a professional front. If you are comfortable in
believing and supporting the woman she will find it easier to be
genuine with you. - Acceptance: Listen to the woman's feelings,
experiences and concerns without dismissing, denying, or judging
her attitudes or behaviour. Let the woman know, directly and
indirectly, that you accept her as a person. - Empathy: Interact
with the woman based on a subjective understanding of the pain
and anguish she has endured. Empathizing does not involve
pitying her or becoming emotionally involved to the extent that
you are not helpful to the woman. - Respect: Respect the woman's
capacity to face the aftermath of the assault. Respect her
strengths and capabilities. - Listening: Listening is more than
a skill : it is an attitude. Conveying to the woman that you
have time for her and are there for her is part of that
attitude. Listening carefull