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The aftermath of rape: recent empirical findings
Dean G Kilpatrick1, Lois J Veronen1, Patricia A Resick2
1Medical University of South Carolina.
The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|October 1, 1979
Summary
Recent rape victims experienced intense distress initially, followed by diminishing symptoms. Residual rape-related fear and anxiety persisted six months post-assault, informing treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Trauma Studies
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Rape is a significant traumatic event with potential long-term psychological consequences.
- Understanding the temporal trajectory of psychological distress post-rape is crucial for effective intervention.
- Previous research highlights the immediate impact but requires further longitudinal data on residual effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To longitudinally assess the psychological functioning of recent rape victims.
- To identify patterns of mood state and psychological distress following sexual assault.
- To differentiate between generalized distress and specific rape-related psychological sequelae.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study design was employed.
- Objective measures of mood state and psychological distress were collected.
- Data were gathered at four intervals from 46 recent rape victims and 35 matched nonvictims.
Main Results:
- The initial response to rape was characterized by intense generalized distress.
- Psychological distress significantly diminished by three and six months post-assault.
- A residual of fear and anxiety problems, specifically linked to the rape, remained at six months.
Conclusions:
- Rape triggers an acute, intense distress response that gradually subsides.
- Specific, rape-related fear and anxiety can persist long after the initial trauma.
- Findings have direct implications for developing targeted and timely psychological treatments for sexual assault survivors.