NCJ Number
137760
Journal
Journal of Social Issues Volume: 48 Issue: 1 Dated: (1992) Pages: 9-22
Date Published
1992
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the feminist response to traditional conceptualizations of rape and its subsequent impact.
Abstract
The meanings of sexual assault and women's sexuality have changed significantly since the colonial period. At that time, women were valued for their sexual purity and were viewed as the center of the family. Sexual intercourse was acceptable only within marriage for the purpose of procreation. A woman who engaged in sex outside of marriage, even against her will, was considered a "fallen" woman and often was blamed for her own victimization. Rape became an important issue within the feminist movement during the 1970s. Sexual assault was redefined from the victim's perspective as a mechanism for maintaining male control and domination, a violent means of inducing fear in women and reinforcing their subordination to men. Feminists made a difference in the way sexual assault and rape are understood, but much still needs to change. Education is necessary to help change society's attitudes about rape and to empower women to action. 43 references (Author abstract modified)