Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Protocol for Studying Extinction of Conditioned Fear in Naturally Cycling Female Rats
Published on: February 23, 2015
Differing effects of partner and nonpartner sexual assault on women's mental health
Jeff R Temple1, Rebecca Weston, Benjamin F Rodriguez
1Brown Medical School, Providence, RI, USA.
Abstract:
This study contrasted the effects of intimate partner and nonpartner sexual assault on women's mental health among a sample (N=835) of low-income, ethnically diverse community women. Compared to sexual assault by a previous partner or by a non-intimate partner, sexual assault by a current partner was the strongest predictor of PTSD, stress, and dissociation. Non-intimate partner sexual assault was only a significant predictor of PTSD and only for African American women. These findings suggest that the victim-offender relationship is important when considering the impact of sexual assault. Specifically, sexual assault perpetrated by an intimate partner may be especially traumatic.
Related Concept Videos
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Panic Disorder
Factors Influencing Attraction II: Physical Attraction
Social Relationships and Well-Being
Relationship Formation
