Thinking Positively After Being Raped: Hints for Therapists Dealing with the Psychosocial Recovery of Rape Survivors

Abstract

Context: Rape continues to be a widespread global problem, inflicting significant psychological and social damage on survivors. Traditional psychotherapies for individuals who have experienced rape primarily focus on addressing the negative psychological effects and consequences of such traumatic experiences. Positive therapy, in contrast, takes a unique approach by focusing on improving clients’ overall quality of life rather than just fixing their shortcomings. Significantly, the current body of literature on positive therapy does not provide explicit instructions for therapists or counselors who are assisting rape survivors. Objectives: The present study aimed to fill the existing knowledge gap by providing practical recommendations for therapists and counselors who work with rape survivors. Methods: The recommendations presented in this paper are based on a thorough literature review and the authors’ clinical expertise. Results: The paper delineates ten strategies conducive to the psychological recovery of rape survivors. These propositions involve strengthening clients’ belief in their ability to overcome challenges, highlighting positive emotions, facilitating the release of negative emotions, prioritizing the expression of emotions rather than denying or suppressing them, developing strong therapeutic and interpersonal relationships, managing clients’ daily routines, redirecting problems towards attainable solutions, emphasizing the development of new strengths after a traumatic event, promoting self-acceptance and incorporating discussions on religious and spiritual beliefs. Conclusions: This study is a pioneering contribution to positive psychology, providing insights into constructive ways of thinking about and dealing with the consequences of rape.