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Rape and Intervention Strategies

NCJ Number
97040
Journal
Crisis Intervention Volume: 13 Issue: 3 Pages: 104-113
Author(s)
D L Plummer; J O Jenkins; L A Hampton
Date Published
Unknown
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This report presents an overview of facts and misconceptions about rape and explains the characteristics and motives of rapists; practical guidance is given for intervention and emergency care of rape victims.
Abstract
That both aggression and sexuality are involved in acts of rape is noted, and the need to treat the rape victim with more than routine medical assistance is emphasized. Five myths about rape are debunked: (1) healthy women are able to prevent rape, (2) females who are raped are asking for it, (3) rape is an act committed spontaneously, (4) rape is committed only between strangers, and (5) rape happens to other people. Problems associated with the treatment of rape victims are discussed, and suggestions for treating victims of 'anger' rape, 'power' rape, and 'sadistic' rape are offered. Some concerns that should be of primary importance to the emergency room technician who treats rape victims are considered; for example, rape victims should be given priority over other nonemergency patients, and pediatrics personnel should be summoned if the victim is a teenager or a child. Further, the need to give the victim individualized treatment is emphasized. The possibility of using female medical personnel or female counselors in treating female rape victims is explored, but the likelihood of the rape victim encountering male medical personnel and counselors is noted. Finally, medical personnel, police officers, and therapists are urged to become informed about rape, so they will be better able to deal with its victims. Thirteen references are listed.

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