Introduktion: Rape is a trauma that differs from other trauma due to the sexual nature of the assault. Therefore, one can imagine that victims of sexual assault feel the effect on their sexuality, which also affects partner relationships and family life. Therefore, the National Board of Health has recommended that all centers for rape victims must offer sexological counseling.
Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the mechanisms behind possible sexual dysfunctions in a victim of sexual assault, and when and how best to prevent and treat such dysfunctions in the country's center for rape victims.
Method: A literature study based on relevant studies, obtained via structured searches in the databases Psychinfo and Pubmed. The empirical outcome is discussed in relation to a theoretical framework of trauma theory, crisis theory and coping theory.
Conclusion: There are many different psychological mechanisms that plays a role in coping with the assault. These, along with the psychosocial mechanisms, make for a complex situation. It is evident that the counselor should not start treatment of the sexological dysfunctions before the initial trauma has been treated. When processing is done, there should be focus on the entire victim and not only on the problems prompted by the assault. One of the treatments has proven beneficial is sensate focus that can be moderated to suit the individual victim. The counselor will then use cognitive behavioral moderation, moderation of negative perceptions and solution-oriented treatment, to back up the treatment.