RAPE TRAUMA SYNDROME (RTS)

Rape Trauma Syndrome was recognized (and the term created) in 1974 by Ann Burgess and Lytle Holmstrom. It is a specific form of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. RTS refers specifically to a system of responses seen in most people who suffer the trauma of sexual assault. Thus, an understanding of RTS leads to an understanding the recovery process.

There are two components of Rape Trauma Syndrome:

• The Acute Phase
• The Reorganization Phase

Acute Phase
The acute phase may last from a few days to several weeks. The victim’s life has been drastically disrupted, and she/he is experiencing disorientation and shock. A variety of physical and emotional reactions may occur during this phase. These reactions are all normal and common for someone who has experienced an acute trauma. In general, there are two types of emotional reactions:

• Expressed reaction
• Controlled reaction

In the expressed reaction, a victim may show outward signs of fear, anxiety and anger.

Expressive behaviors may include:

• Crying
• Laughing
• Screaming
• Joking
• Tenseness
• Shaking
• Restlessness
• Pacing

In the controlled reaction, a victim displays little or no outward response. Feelings are hidden or masked. Victims may appear calm, composed, disaffected or subdued.

Controlled behaviors may include:

• Numbness
• Depression
• Feeling dirty
• Vengeful thoughts
• Guilt
• Difficulty concentrating
• Shame
• Moodiness
• Fear
• Restlessness
• Denial
• Anger
• Self-blame
• Revenge

Physical reactions that may occur during the acute phase include:

• Soreness
• Fatigue
• Bruises
• Eating disturbances
• Infections
• Sleeping disturbances
• Head aches
• Easily startled
• Stomach aches

Victims may alternate between expressed and controlled responses and these responses may surprise or catch the victim off guard. Emotions may go from one extreme to another.

Reorganization Phase

The reorganization phase begins as the victim starts to integrate the experience into his/her daily living. The duration of this phase varies and will depend on such factors as the victim’s age, personality style and available support system. It may last anywhere from a couple of months to years. During the reorganization phase, victims may undergo:

Lifestyle changes such as:

• Change of telephone number and/or residence
• New job or school
• New friends
• Nightmares
• Phobias

Global Fears such as:

• Men
• Sex
• Crowds
• Being alone

Specific Fears such as:

• Night driving
• Specific areas or neighborhoods
• Things directly associated with the assault

Physical Issues such as:

• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Pregnancy
• Lasting scars or physical damage from assault

Trying to Regain Control Over Life, which may include:

• Return to work
• Long-term therapy
• More/less contact with family
• Want to be in control of choices
• Self-defense classes

Sexual assault is the ultimate loss of personal control

Empower the victim by giving her/him choices, autonomy, support and respect.