NCJ Number
74365
Date Published
1980
Length
15 pages
Annotation
The functioning and organization of a sexual assault victim care unit in Perth, Australia, is described and experiences with rape victims are analyzed.
Abstract
Established in January 1976, the Sexual Assault Referral Center (S.A.R.C.) provides nonstop service for any male or female sexual assault victim above the age of 12. Important functions of the center include (1) treatment for the physical, emotional, and social needs of victims; (2) assistance in the police investigation; and (3) promotion of community understanding of sexual assault problems. Financed by the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital and free of charge to victims, the center is staffed by a team of female counselors and a panel of female medical practitioners. Male counselors or doctors are available on request. Victims are accepted for treatment upon their own initiative and as referrals from other agencies. All contacts are strictly confidential, and a good working relationship exists between the Western Australian Police Force and the center. Between October 1978 and March 1980, 239 valid referrals were admitted to the center, only 3 of which involved male victims. Amounting to 150 cases, rape was the major complaint. Of these, 93 cases were reported to the police. Chief reasons for not reporting rape to the police included (1) consideration for family, (2) fear of the police, (3) fear of the ensuing trial, and (4) a desire to protect the offender. Rape victims usually experience a total disruption of their lives including such short-term effects as specific physical symptoms; disturbances in eating and sleeping patterns; and feelings of fear, guilt, and self-blame. Long-term effects range from changes in job and residence, to dreams, nightmares, and phobias. The article concludes that numerous areas for improving the treatment of rape victims exist. Tables, reference notes, and six footnotes are included. For related papers, see NCJ 74354.