Victims of Sexual Assault (From Victims of Crime: Problems, Policies, and Programs, V 25, P 69-86, 1990, Arthur J Lurigio, Wesley G Skogan, et al., eds. -- See NCJ-128570)

• NCJ Number: 128574
• Author(s): P A Resick
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 18 pages
• Sale Source: Sage Publications, Inc
• Publication Type: Research (Theoretical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS.

Annotation

This paper examines research on reactions to rape, describes current theories explaining these reactions, and discusses implications of these findings and theories for intervention with adult rape victims.

Abstract

A women's chance of being sexually assaulted in her lifetime ranges from between 14 percent and 44 percent. Research indicates that rape victims are likely to become depressed, anxious, and fearful and to feel helpless. They report lower levels of self-esteem, drug and alcohol problems, and difficulties in relationships with others. Such reactions are apparently transmitted to other females, since concern about rape accounts for much of the fear and avoidance behavior reported by women in surveys. Psychological theories that explain reactions to rape provide some guidance for helping victims. Crisis theory for example, indicates the importance of early intervention. Learning theory helps to explain why the impact of victimization can persist for years, and cognitive theory assists to explain why some victims blame themselves for their fate and experience recrimination and self-doubt as a consequence. Criminal justice personnel should note particularly which rape victims describe the crime as an experience of imminent death and themselves as being terrified during the crime; such victims should be referred to counseling. 53 references