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Article
The Epidemiology of Physical Attack and Rape Among Crack-Using Women
Violence and Victims
  • Russel S. Falck, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Jichuan Wang, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Robert G. Carlson, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Harvey A. Siegal, Wright State University - Main Campus
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2001
Abstract

This prospective study examines the epidemiology of physical attack and rape among a sample of 171 not-in-treatment, crack-cocaine using women. Since initiating crack use, 62% of the women reported suffering a physical attack. The annual rate of victimization by physical attack was 45%. Overall, more than half of the victims sought medical care subsequent to an attack. The prevalence of rape since crack use was initiated was 32%, and the annual rate was 11%. Among those women having been raped since they initiated crack use, 83% reported they were high on crack when the crime occurred as were an estimated 57% of the perpetrators. Logistic regression analyses showed that duration of crack use, arrest for prostitution, and some college education were predictors of having experienced a physical attack. Duration of crack use and a history of prostitution were predictors of suffering a rape. Drug abuse treatment programs must be sensitive to high levels of violence victimization experienced by crack-cocaine using women. Screening women for victimization, and treating the problems that emanate from it, may help make drug abuse treatment more effective.

Citation Information
Russel S. Falck, Jichuan Wang, Robert G. Carlson and Harvey A. Siegal. "The Epidemiology of Physical Attack and Rape Among Crack-Using Women" Violence and Victims Vol. 16 Iss. 1 (2001) p. 79 - 89 ISSN: 0886-6708
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/robert_carlson/70/