NCJ Number
91155
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 52 Issue: 9 Dated: (September 1983) Pages: 8-15
Date Published
1983
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article presents a content format for an interview with a rape victim which provides information to facilitate the construction of a profile of the rapist.
Abstract
In preparing a rapist profile, three basic steps are required: (1) a careful interview of the victim regarding the rapist's behavior, (2) analysis of that behavior in an attempt to determine the motivation underlying the assault, and (3) compilation of a profile of the individual likely to have committed the crime in the manner reported and having the assumed motivation. Through an analysis of the offender's verbal, sexual, and physical behavior, it may be possible to determine what needs were being served and to project personality characteristics of the person having such needs. The victim is the source of such information, and to obtain it, the interviewer must establish a rapport with the victim through empathy and professionalism. The information obtained from the victim should include the method of initial contact used by the offender, the manner in which the offender controlled the victim, and the offender's reaction to victim resistance. Information the victim may provide on any sexual dysfunction possessed by the offender may relate to erectile insufficiency, premature ejaculation, retarded ejaculation, and conditioned ejaculation (particular circumstances must be met before ejaculation can occur). A determination of the type and sequence of sexual acts demanded by the offender also reveals aspects of his personality, as does the conversation of the offender during the attack and any verbal expressions demanded of the victim. Other information helpful in profiling the rapist is any sudden change in the offender's attitude during the attack and any items taken from the victim. Seventeen footnotes are provided.