When Recounting the Traumatic Memories is Not Enough

Abstract

Rape is not only a vicious physical assault; it is similarly a horrific attack on the self. The violation of rape survivors' innermost boundaries commonly injures their very core of being. Moreover, victim-blaming rape myths frequently magnify and deepen the original wounds. The result can be extreme and incessant guilt and shame that are often quite unresponsive to treatment. This paper seeks to address a gap in the literature concerning the treatment of the combined impact of rape and related internalized rape myths on survivors' sense of self. Explicit guidelines for therapy are outlined in accordance. To be most effective, treatment must provide a therapeutic environment free of all prejudicial attitudes toward rape survivors, wherein rape-specific injuries to the self are directly and empathically addressed.

Key Words:

• Rape
• rape myths
• psychological sequelae of rape
• rape treatment