title: An exploratory approach to self-blame and self-derogation by rape victims.
abstract: Quantitative and interview data on rape victims' self-evaluation and attributions of personal responsibility were studied to explore the relevance of theories of "defensive attribution" and maintenance of belief in a "just world." Clinical implications of the findings for adjustment of victims, counseling, victim compensation, and the legal system are discussed.
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001290:Attitude; D005260:Female; D006167:Guilt; D006801:Humans; D009518:New York; D011902:Rape; D012649:Self Concept; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology