NCJ Number
97300
Editor(s)
A W Burgess
Date Published
1985
Length
449 pages
Annotation
These 25 papers on sexual assault consider victims' experiences and needs, the family and legal responses to the victim, the characteristics and handling of offenders, and research and prevention efforts.
Abstract
Two introductory papers provide historical background on the antirape movement and describe the activities of the National Center for the Prevention and Control of Rape. Ten articles focus on victims' mental health needs; the rape trauma syndrome; and the experiences of specific groups of victims, including adolescents, boys, daughters experiencing father-daughter incest, handicapped persons, and wives experiencing marital rape. The general problem of domestic violence is also examined. The responses of the family and the criminal justice system to the sexual assault victim are described. Issues pertaining to sexual offenders are examined in articles on rape-murder, the development of offender profiles, the treatment of child molesters, the classification of sex offenders, and motives for rape. The role of the mass media and other aspects of prevention efforts are examined, with emphasis on feminist perspectives and the need for multiple strategies in primary prevention. Recommendations for research, treatment, policies, and criminal justice system procedures are included. Data tables, chapter reference lists, and an index are supplied.