The subjects completed a number of self-report instruments focusing on their levels of distress, strain symptoms, fear of certain situations, and supportive and nonsupportive behaviors they exhibited toward the crime victim. The results showed that level of victim distress did not affect SO distress, nor were SO distress levels higher in sexual assault than in nonsexual assault cases. Contrary to study hypotheses, SOs in romantic relationships with victims did not experience more distress than other SOs. However, female friends and family members reported higher distress levels than either male romantic partners or male family and friends. High levels of SO distress did not affect the supportive behaviors shown toward crime victims, but were associated with nonsupportive behavior. Higher levels of nonsupportive behavior were found among SOs of sexual assault victims. 3 tables, 5 notes, and 40 references