Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms: A Mechanism in the Relationship Between Early Sexual Victimization and Incapacitated/Drug-or-Alcohol-Facilitated and Forcible Rape

• NCJ Number: 245567
• Journal: Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 28 Issue: 3 Dated: February 2013 Pages: 558-576
• Author(s): Kate Walsh; David DiLillo; Alicia Klanecky; Dennis McChargue
• Date Published: February 2013
• Length: 19 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Sexual assault occurring when the victim is unable to consent or resist due to the use or administration of alcohol or drugs (i.e., incapacitated/drug-or-alcohol facilitated rape; IR/DAFR) is a particularly prevalent form of victimization experienced by college women.

Abstract

By definition, substance use precedes IR/DAFR; however, few studies have examined other potential risk factors for IR/DAFR that may be unique from those associated with forcible rape (FR; i.e., sexual assault occurring due to threats or physical restraint). The present investigation tested a model of risk for IR/DAFR and FR suggesting that child or adolescent sexual abuse (CASA) leads to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, which in turn increase the likelihood of IR/DAFR, but not FR. Results revealed full mediation for PTSD hyperarousal symptoms in the pathway between CASA and IR/DAFR, and partial mediation for hyperarousal symptoms in the pathway between CASA and FR. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.