NCJ Number
134542
Date Published
1991
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This paper describes a systematic method for the collection of data from victims of sexual assault.
Abstract
The theoretical model for the proposed semistructured interview schedule is information processing of trauma. This model assumes that sexual assault is a major trauma to a victim and that the biological as well as psychological strategies used to survive the experience play a key role in symptom manifestation and adaptation over time. The Dimensions of Rape Interview Schedule (DORIS) is meant to supplement commonly used clinical assessment techniques such as the mental status examination and other diagnostic procedures. The interview is based on the theoretical constructs of information processing of trauma. Individual items included are based on extensive review of the literature and clinical experience in the assessment of rape victims. The dimensions of rape assessed in the DORIS are type of abuse, assailant characteristics and relationship to the victim, event characteristics, victim characteristics at the time of the rape and currently, victim response, and aftermath. Information solicited by the DORIS under each of the aforementioned categories is discussed. The authors advise that interviews are best conducted by allowing victims to describe the sexual assault in their own words without reference to the questions in the DORIS. When the victim has finished relating the event, the interviewer then asks about specific items in the DORIS not mentioned or fully explained by the victim. 54 references