Sexual violence in patients with psychiatric conditions: Factors for consideration in case management. (February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harrison, C.; Parekh, V.
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic and legal medicine. Volume 86(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-02
• Subjects: Forensic medicine -- Sex offences -- Sexual trauma -- Mental disorders -- Patient advocacy; Medical jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Forensic sciences -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine légale -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2022.102303
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1752-928X

Abstract

Abstract: Patients with underlying psychiatric conditions are vulnerable to the experience of sexual violence. Barriers and facilitators to disclosure exist, at the level of the individual, healthcare system, legal system and society in general. Management requires a trauma-informed approach with a focus on avoidance of stigma, optimisation of pre-existing psychiatric conditions and appropriate treatment of psychological sequalae. Preventive strategies by the patient, practitioner and healthcare system, may assist to reduce the risk of future sexual violence. Highlights: Psychiatric illness is a factor which may make patients more vulnerable and predispose them to sexual violence. Unfortunately, stigma remains around both the experience of sexual violence and mental ill-health - patients with psychiatric illness must be accurately identified and may require additional support to report, and to deal with, the effects of sexual violence. False allegations are rare and even if the case, where due to ill-health, should not preclude the receipt of compassionate, respectful care. There are many sequalae following sexual violence - a coordinated multidisciplinary care plan involving medical, psychological and social input, will best effect care for patients who have experienced sexual violence, particularly those with psychiatric illness. Ongoing advocacy is required to optimize the landscape of mental health services and to support those who respond to victims of sexual violence, to do so in an evidence-based, compassionate, trauma-informed manner.