NCJ Number
81942
Date Published
1982
Length
143 pages
Annotation
This book offers data on the incidence of rape, historical background and recent changes in the societal reactions to rape, and a description of typical rapists, victims, and rapes. The text also considers responses of the criminal justice system, victim support systems, victim reactions, and rape prevention.
Abstract
Statistics indicate that the already high incidence of rape is increasing, without commensurate changes in conviction rates. Because many sexual assaults are not reported, often attributed to insensitive police practices, some jurisdictions have changed the handling of rape victims. Michigan, the first State to redefine the law in terms of the criminal and the victim, divided acts of sexual violence into degrees of severity. The book describes common misconceptions about rape; e.g., most rapes are performed by strangers, women secretly desire to be raped, and only attractive women are victimized. Studies suggest that anger, power, and sadism predominate as motivations. Also, a woman's lack of assertiveness may be a crucial contributor to her vulnerability. Institutional response to rape is beginning to change. Sexual assault calls now receive priority in most police departments where officers are trained to be sensitive in interrogating victims. Hospitals often separate rape treatment facilities from general emergency facilities and use evidence collection kits. The authors note that some court procedures still reflect poor attitudes toward rape victims, including harassment by defense attorneys. A rape crisis volunteer or a rape victim support person from the prosecutor's office may be available for assistance in court procedures. Acceptance of bills of information, mandated speedy trial, and taped testimony are court measures that can ease victim discomfort. Civil suits and group action are other means of recourse, and victim reparation, witness compensation, and worker compensation programs are designed to ease financial burdens. Rape crisis centers, hotlines, and counseling services assist women through the three-stage emotional trauma of rape: immediate reaction, outward adjustment, and integration. The text ends with suggested behaviors for the prevention of sexual assault. An index and a 77-item bibliography are supplied.