It outlines the structure, function, and some techniques of the study group, including the use of simulations and prototypical situations. In one study, verbal responses of rape victims were classified into seven categories. Actors were used to videotape samples of each response type, and the role-played scenes were then shown to a number of groups: convicted rapists, staff members in a sex offender treatment program, and individuals attending a national conference on rape research and prevention. Given no clue about whether or not the victim was actually successful in preventing the rape, the audiences were asked to rate the deterrence potential of the various strategies. Preliminary results suggest two 'types' of rapists: an aggressive, antagonistic one who is best deterred by crying, signs of weakness, and bodily difficulties and a tentative, more polite type who may be actively rejected with verbal or physical attack. A second study, in progress, uses similar techniques to investigate different categories of rapists and changes in citizen attitudes toward sexual assault. Other work in progress includes an annotated bibliography of sexual assault literature (the proposed taxonomy is included), and an attempt to identify psychological and social factors underlying rape. One footnote and five references are given. (ERIC abstract modified)