Understanding rape and sexual assault: 20 years of progress and future directions

During the past 20 years, researchers have documented the widespread problem of rape in American society. Approximately one in four women are raped in their adult lifetime, which causes severe psychological distress and long-term physical health problems. The impact of sexual assault extends far beyond rape survivors as their family, friends, and significant others are also negatively affected. Moreover, those who help rape victims, such as rape victim advocates, therapists, as well as sexual assault researchers, can experience vicarious trauma. Future research and advocacy should focus on improving the community response to rape and the prevention of sexual assault
Author: 
Campbell,Rebecca
Wasco,Sharon M.
Reprint Status: 
IN FILE
Start Page: 
127
End Page: 
131
Journal/Periodical Name: 
Journal of Interpersonal Violence
Volume: 
20
Issue: 
1
Abstract: 
This article provides an overview of twenty years of research pertaining to sexual assault, spanning from the initial studies that determined estimates of prevalence to more recent studies focusing on vicarious trauma of rape victim advocates, therapists, and researchers. The authors discuss the significance of PTSD among survivors of sexual assault, the importance of prevention and intervention programs, and the methodological tools
Topic Areas: 
Community Attitudes/Responses, Prevention, Theory
Reference Type: 
JOUR
Reference ID: 
2305
Publication Date: 
2005/01/01