NCJ Number
138093
Journal
Journal of American College Health Volume: 40 Issue: 4 Dated: (January 1992) Pages: 175-181
Date Published
1992
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article reviews literature since 1980 on college men as perpetrator of acquaintance rape and other forms of sexual assault.
Abstract
The topics addressed in the review are the definition and incidence of acquaintance rape and sexual assault, perpetrator characteristics, situations associated with sexual assault, and men's misperception of women's sexual intent. The research suggests that rape is best understood as an extreme on a continuum of sexually assaultive behaviors and that sexual assault is perpetrated by many men and may be normative male behavior. Factors associated with the increased risk of a man committing sexual assault are categorized under perpetrator characteristics, situational risk factors, and perpetrator misperception of the sexual intent of the woman. Some perpetrator characteristics associated with an increased risk for the commission of sexual assault area belief in rape myths, an adversarial view of interactions, support for traditional gender roles, hostility toward women, the need to dominate, and participation in all-male groups that affirm attitudes and behaviors favorable to sexually assaultive behavior. Situational risk factors include alcohol and other drug use, an ongoing relationship with the victim, dress, and power differential. The findings of this study suggest that rape prevention programs for men should define rape and sexual assault, challenge rape myths, critique male socialization experiences, and encourage men to confront peers who express adherence to rape-supportive beliefs. 41 references