The research reveals that most rape victims, immediately after the assault, experience acute reactions that last several months. Some stabilization in the initial symptoms occurs by 3 months after the assault, but some victims continue to experience chronic problems for an indefinite time. In addition, physical symptoms and problems may result either directly from the crime or as a result of stress. Post-traumatic stress disorder and major depression are the two major psychological disorders most often examined in rape victims. Victims' psychological functioning prior to the crime, their appraisal of danger during the crime, the use of dissociation as a coping style, self-blame, and the availability of social support after the crime are some of the variables that have an important role in moderating recovery. Crisis theory, learning theory, and cognitive theories have been used to explain sexual assault trauma. Despite this knowledge and the availability of effective therapies for rape victims, victims often do not receive the support they need to recover successfully. Criminal justice and victim assistance practitioners are often in crucial positions to make appropriate referrals and provide leadership in changing attitudes toward rape victims by their own humane treatment of victims, by the example they set, and by the dissemination of accurate information and training to other professionals and the public. 156 references