Psychological Aspects and Family Dynamics of Adolescent Rape Victims

• NCJ Number: 72092
• Author(s): J M VanderMeer
• Date Published: 1976
• Length: 201 pages
• Sale Source: UMI Dissertation Services
• Publication Type: Thesis/Dissertation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS. University of New Mexico - doctoral dissertation

Annotation

A descriptive, multiple-case study of a convenience sample of 13-to-17-year-old rape victims was undertaken following an initial exploratory study, with the conclusion drawn that the data does not specifically allow for a 'rape victim only' category.

Abstract

The study sought to identify indicators in the rape victim and her family that would provide a profile of high-risk or potential adolescent victims. Methods of data collection included standardized tests and semistructured interview schedules. Data were gathered by using four instruments: the Tennessee Self Concept Scale, the California Psychological Inventory, the Parent-Adolescent Communication Inventory, and the Slosson Intelligence Test. Interview data elicited information from the victim about prerape behavior, the rape event, school history, sex history including sex education, and peer and family relationships. Parent interviews elicited information about the role of the victim in the family and the interaction between mother and father. A profile of 47 significant variables related to the high-risk 13-to-17-year-old rape victim was formulated. The profile developed did not specifically establish a potential 'rape victim only' category, but placed the victim in a large multiproblem family where money, family structure, family cohesiveness, and family support were minimal. The victims were identified as adolescents with considerable emotional disturbance, a normal I.Q. (intelligence quotient), a low self-concept, and a tendency toward passivity in their interpersonal relationships. The t-ratio analysis indicated that the study group differed in 9 of the 18 scales relating to personality characteristics and in 16 or the 29 scales describing multidimensional aspects of self-concept. Implications of the study suggest further research, while recommendations for further study center on the need for exploring preconscious and unconscious personality dynamics, as well as family-victim and offender-victim interactions. Tables and approximately 39 references are provided. Copies of study instruments are appended. (Author abstract modified)