Is It Love or Sexual Abuse? Young Adults' Perceptions of Statutory Rape

• NCJ Number: 245194
• Journal: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 22 Issue: 7 Dated: 2013 Pages: 858-877
• Author(s): Barbara A. Oudekerk; Rachel H. Farr; N. Dickon Reppucci
• Date Published: 2013
• Length: 20 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The authors assessed 210 (50 percent male) young adults' perceptions of statutory rape involving a 15-year-old female adolescent and a male who was either 2, 4, or 6 years older.

Abstract

Adults under age 25 comprise the majority of statutory rape perpetrators, yet we know little about their perceptions of statutory relationships. The authors assessed 210 (50 percent male) young adults' perceptions of statutory rape involving a 15-year-old female adolescent and a male who was either 2, 4, or 6 years older. Across all age gaps, 73.7 percent of participants felt the relationship should not be a crime. Participants who read about a 4- or 6-year (versus 2-year) age gap perceived the relationship as significantly more of a crime and the older partner as more responsible and in need of legal intervention. Effects were partially mediated by perceptions of the relationship as exploitive. Results suggest a need to educate young adults about statutory rape. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.