NCJ Number
102752
Date Published
1986
Length
28 pages
Annotation
These guidelines for people working in the helping professions provide information on the procedures that a survivor of a sexual assault in Canada may encounter and explain the practical skills needed for working effectively with these crime victims.
Abstract
Common myths about sexual assault are listed and refuted. Explanations are given of Canadian law, criminal justice system interactions with sexual assault victims, the steps involved in a sexual assault prosecution, and recommended medical procedures. Details on the survivor's immediate and long-term responses to the assault cover the acute and reorganization phases of the rape trauma syndrome, especially the common emotional reactions, changes in lifestyle in reaction to the experience, and the stages of coming to terms with the emotional pain associated with the assault. Guidelines for helpers give specific instructions and strategies to use at each stage. Advice is also given on working with adult victims of childhood sexual abuse and on working with special groups such as the elderly, men, homosexuals, and handicapped persons. Personal issues that helpers must face and the role of community groups are also outlined. Appendix presenting statistics on sexual assault in Canada, 51 references, and evaluation form.