2016 Volume 21 Issue 3 Pages 325-335
The present study attempted to develop a handbook for sexual assault victims during the acute phase and evaluate its utility among support providers.
Method：We developed a handbook based on prior research and interviews with sexual assault victims. We revised the draft based on interdisciplinary specialists’ opinions. Handbooks were distributed to support givers who were requested to use them with victims. We distributed self-administered questionnaires to participants comprising support givers to victims of severe sexual assault experiences.
Results：Of the 104 survey respondents (55.9% response rate), 95.2% were female and the mean age was 54.1±13.1 years. Overall, 18.3% of the respondents used the handbook to provide victims with support during the survey. More than 80% of the respondents commented that the content was useful for supporters and sexual assault victims. More than 70% reported that the content was easy to understand, 41.3% stated that it contained extensive information, and 10.6% replied that support providers’ burdens increased when victims used the handbook.
Discussion：This handbook was utility among a group of support providers. Nonetheless, it is necessary to conduct a detailed examination of its content in the future.
