Four Theories of Rape: A Macrosociological Analysis

• NCJ Number: 108941
• Journal: Social Problems Volume: 34 Issue: 5 Dated: (December 1987) Pages: 467-488
• Author(s): L Baron; M A Straus
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 22 pages
• Grant Number(s): T32 MH15161; 5T32MH15123
• Sponsoring Agency: University of New Hampshire
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Theoretical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Paper presented at the International Congress on Rape, Tel Aviv, Israel, April 7-11, 1986.

Annotation

This paper presents a theoretical model which integrates four macrosociological theories of rape and shows how they, among other factors, have a direct effect on the incidence of rape.

Abstract

The four macrosociological theories are that (1) rape is a mechanism of gender inequality, (2) is attributed to the proliferation of pornographic materials, (3) cultural norms which favor violence for socially legitimate purposes tend to be generalized to other social contexts and increase the likelihood of rape (cultural spillover theory), (4) social disorganization reduces social constraints against rape. The theoretical model was tested using 1980-1982 data on rapes known to police in the 50 States of the United States. Results show that gender inequality, social disorganization, percent residing in SMSA's, the circulation of pornography, economic inequality, and percent unemployed have direct effects on the incidence of rape. 2 figures, 2 tables, 1 appendix, and 92 references. (Author abstract modified)