A computational model based on classical molecular rotation provides insight into the observability of dipole-bound states. The observability is related to the lifetime of the state prior to rotational autodetachment of the electron. The model tracks an ensemble of dipole-bound states. Their motion in space is integrated as a function of time, which provides a means to analyze the lifetimes of the dipole-bound states. The results are generally in good agreement with experimental data. Some exceptions show the limitations of the model but also provide insight into the autodetachment mechanism.