NCJ Number
145782
Journal
Sociological Spectrum Volume: 13 Issue: 4 Dated: (October-December 1993) Pages: 393-413
Date Published
1993
Length
21 pages
Annotation
Although all-male friendship networks may have an important effect in motivating some men to physically, sexually, and psychologically harm female intimates, particularly in dating relationships, the study of the dynamics of these groups is still limited.
Abstract
DeKeseredy's early model of the link between male peer group dynamics and female victimization in university dating relationships has explanatory value in understanding the male peer support network, but it fails to address several factors, including macrolevel forces, the role of alcohol abuse, membership in formal social groups such as fraternities, and the absence of deterrent factors on many campuses. An effort is made to build a stronger theoretical model by adding these factors to DeKeseredy's base. The authors argue that important next steps include strong multivariate analysis and ethnographic study to look at the role of men's peer groups in promoting a discourse and dramaturgy of everyday student life that legitimizes the use of violence against women. Membership in male support groups is discussed in terms of masculinity, group secrecy, and the sexual objectification of women. 81 references and 2 figures