Analysis of Rape Trauma Syndrome Guided by Roy Adaptation Model: Scoping Review

Abstract

Background:

Rape trauma syndrome (RTS) is a phenomenon that refers to a recognizable pattern of psychological, physical, cognitive, and relational responses following a sexual assault.

Objective:

To reassess the evidence base for RTS as a valid nursing diagnosis and to offer a conceptual-theoretical-empirical (C–T–E) structure for RTS based on the Roy Adaptation Model (RAM).

Data source:

A scoping review of the literature, following JBI guidelines, was conducted by two reviewers in databases and gray literature. Conflicts were resolved by a third reviewer. Studies published between 1974 and 2024 involving individuals with a nursing diagnosis of "rape trauma syndrome" treated in healthcare settings were included.

Data synthesis:

The analysis of the 34 articles, guided by RAM, revealed that the person who experienced rape needs to be understood as a holistic, dynamic, and complex adaptive system. RTS is a phenomenon of ineffective adaptation to rape trauma that emerges from the person’s interaction and contextual environmental stimuli, such as the pressure of secrecy after rape, the circumstances of the rape, and verbal exposure of rape. Nurses can identify RTS through the adaptive modes, focusing on physical trauma, sleep pattern disturbances and nightmares, self-blame, impaired self-image, loss of interest in previous life activities, social interruption, and loneliness.

Conclusion:

There is a need for more research in different population groups and contexts, as well as for the validation of nursing interventions tailored to the specific needs of people who have experienced rape. Applying RAM broadens the understanding of the rape trauma phenomenon, offering a robust theoretical framework for autonomous assessment, clinical reasoning, and nursing care planning.

Implications for nursing practice:

The RTS nursing diagnosis, guided by RAM, offers a flexible framework for recognizing behaviors resulting from rape trauma, anticipating needs, and identifying recovery points.