ERIC Number: ED304593
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1988-Aug
Pages: 26
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
The Long-Term Effects of Rape on Lifestyle and Psychological Functioning.
Esper, Jody A.; Runge, Christopher J.
Research has shown rape to be an act of violence which affects the lives of many individuals each year. For many survivors of rape, effects on psychological functioning and lifestyle may endure for many years. This study was undertaken to develop and pilot the Rape Assessment Schedule, an interview schedule designed to assess the very long-term effects of rape on psychological functioning and lifestyle. Interviews were conducted with 19 female survivors of rape with a mean post-assault interval of 7.72 years. The pilot data indicated that for at least some women, the effects of rape could endure for years. In general, these effects paralleled the short-term effects documented in the psychological literature and included the occurrence of nightmares and memories; changes in levels of fear, anxiety, anger, and depression; sexual dysfunction; and various life restrictions. The data also indicated that, in the majority of cases, these effects were cued by specific environmental stimuli. The findings support the contention that reactions to rape can be explained by two-factor learning theory, and are also congruent with the idea that reactions of at least some individuals to rape can be viewed as an example of the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. A reference list and tables outlining research results are attached. (NB)
Descriptors: Adults, Females, Life Style, Psychological Characteristics, Rape, Victims of Crime, Well Being
Publication Type: Reports - Research; Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Note: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Psychological Association (96th, Atlanta, GA, August 12-16, 1988).