Victim emotional response: effects on social reaction to victims of rape

Two studies examined the impact of variations in a rape victim's emotional reactions on others' perceptions of her. The victim was presented as emotionally expressive or emotionally controlled. In one study written descriptions were used, while in the second, videotape presentations were employed. In both studies, the emotionally expressive victim was rated as more credible. In the videotape presentation, additional differences indicated that the emotionally controlled victim is perceived as having less aversion for the rape and was liked less. Results are discussed in terms of observers' expectations concerning rape victim reactions and the social climate after a rape.