Post Sexual Trauma Essay

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Abstract The rate of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in sexual assault survivors is even higher than what is reported in combat situations . Increased knowledge of the difficulties associated with rape trauma in biological, psychological and sociological areas may help to develop more effective treatments for survivors. Pharmacotherapies are available to treat PTSD, however, they are often inadequate or unwanted by the survivor. Mental health is often compromised following sexual trauma and many psychological therapies are available, but with varying results. A person's thought patterns have a dramatic effect on the onset, severity, and progress of PTSD following sexual assault. In addition, sociological impacts of assault influence the development of PTSD through victim-blaming attitudes. Unconditional positive regard and early social support is shown to be important to successful recovery. Education is vital in rape prevention and to encourage a supportive environment for survivors. The biological, psychological and…show more content…
National Co-morbidity Survey Report estimates the lifetime prevalence of PTSD among North Americans to be 7.8%. In contrast, the lifetime prevalence of PTSD for women who have been sexually assaulted is 50%. More importantly, sexual assault is the most frequent cause of PTSD in women, with one study reporting that 94% of women experienced PTSD symptoms during the first two weeks after an assault (Brunello, 2001). The disturbingly high rate of PTSD in sexual assault survivors suggest that current therapies for rape victims are not meeting as effective as current needs demand. There is no one treatment for every victim suffering with PTSD, as the disorder can show itself in many ways. It is important to consider the biological, psychological, and sociological impacts when developing effective treatment and intervention methods for sexual-assault-related
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