Victim/survivor input into circles of support and accountability (CoSA): An exploratory mixed methods study

Victim/survivors of sexual violence have long served as volunteers in Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA); however, little has been documented about broader victim/survivor input into CoSA. This research addressed this gap through an online survey and in-depth qualitative interviews with CoSA staff and volunteers across the globe. It documented that in participants’ views, victim/survivors need to occupy the ‘Goldilocks’ position by evoking empathy on the part of the perpetrator, while not doing so in a way that is too punitive so as to threaten perpetrator stability. Findings of the study may be relevant to CoSA programs around the world considering expanding and/or formalizing victim/survivor input.