Rape impact: Immediately and two months later

This paper analyzes assault victims’ reactions over the course of two months. Specifically, reaction types are analyzed across four dimensions: behavioral changes, interpersonal difficulties, physical symptoms, and emotional responses. Initially, most rape victims report fairly high levels of disruption across three of the four reaction types, with some signs of recovery two months later. Patterns of reactions are also exhibited. At the two month follow‐up, behavioral changes, physical symptoms, and emotional responses have declined, while interpersonal difficulties have increased slightly. These data suggest that the present service delivery system of the rape crisis center may be problematic in that they offer only short‐term intervention. Some victims of rape may require a different type of service from such centers.