Questions from Readers
Should Watanabe Nagisa be blamed for not appearing “PTSD-like”? In light of Masahiro Nakai’s situation, I would like to reflect on the public sentiment surrounding this issue. Reports have surfaced regarding sexual harassment and violence involving Masahiro Nakai, and it has come to my attention that the alleged victim, announcer Watanabe Nagisa, is suffering from PTSD. Despite
medical diagnoses and personal testimonies being verified, many online voices question her behavior, saying things like, “It’s strange that a victim can work cheerfully” and “It’s odd for someone with an illness to publish a photo book.” On the other hand, there are also defenders of Nakai stating that “he has reflected enough,” which suggests a tendency to question the culpability based on the victim’s actions. I believe that it is not contradictory for someone suffering from PTSD to continue working or to smile. Rather, it is precisely because the suffering is often invisible that a doctor’s diagnosis becomes necessary. Still, why do we hear persistent opinions suggesting, “If she really has PTSD, she should act more like it”? This seems to reflect a societal pressure common to individuals affected by sexual violence and mental trauma, not just Watanabe. While discussions about Nakai’s punishment and evaluation should be based on facts, what do you think about the phenomenon of Watanabe being attacked for not appearing as a “victim” and being used as a shield for Nakai? I want to think calmly about the distance between the dignity of those involved and the emotions of society.
Society’s Expectations and the Reality of Victims
Recently, there have been various opinions circulating online regarding Watanabe Nagisa. Particularly, she is often criticized for not appearing “PTSD-like,” which I believe reflects a lack of understanding. As a law student, I have had more opportunities to consider the perspectives and emotions of victims.
Reflecting on My Own Experiences
In fact, I have dealt with case studies related to sexual harassment and violence in university classes. During one lecture, we had a group discussion about how victims might feel, and one classmate stated, “Victims should look more sad.” I was honestly shocked. It felt like he did not understand the emotional state of victims. Another student countered, saying, “There is suffering that isn’t visible. Being cheerful doesn’t necessarily mean someone is okay.” I could relate to this perspective. In reality, victims may sometimes act cheerful, while on other days, they may struggle to smile at all. Neither response is inherently “correct.”
The “Victim Image” Society Demands
In the case of Watanabe, observing reactions online reveals a fixed notion of “how a victim should be.” Questions arise, such as, “If she is working cheerfully, can she really have PTSD?” To that, I respond, “That’s not true.” PTSD is not something visible, and each person’s response varies widely. In fact, I have a friend who struggles with PTSD. In his daily life, he can sometimes laugh normally, while at other times, he is suddenly overwhelmed with anxiety. Watching him shows me that emotional wounds are diverse and complex, making them difficult to understand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I believe it is essential to move beyond the societal image of “what a victim should be” and make an effort to understand the individual circumstances and emotions of each person involved. If we can offer a warm perspective to those who, like Watanabe, may be suffering in ways that are not visible, it might help them live a little easier. I encourage everyone to share their own experiences and thoughts in the comments section. There may be relatable insights or surprising discoveries. By listening to each other’s opinions, I hope we can work towards creating a better society together.
