NCJ Number
171651
Date Published
1995
Length
108 pages
Annotation
This book discusses the extent, patterns, impact, and prevention of violent crimes against women.
Abstract
It examines statistics, highlights areas of controversy, and offers practical advice -- through discussions, program profiles, and appendixes -- for individuals engaged in both prevention and victim services. Starting with prevention strategies for self- protection and self-defense issues, chapters also address sexual assault/rape, date and acquaintance rape, domestic violence, workplace violence, and teen dating aggression. Legislative trends and contemporary issues, such as dealing with multicultural populations, are referenced as appropriate. Some themes with special relevance for prevention are featured. The author notes that although the true extent of rape by strangers, acquaintances, and intimates is unknown, as is the number of women battered by boyfriends or husbands, statisticians, police officers, and victim advocates agree that current estimates are low because of underreporting and differences in definitions. Further, public education is critical in convincing men and women that rape and domestic violence are serious crimes; education is also needed to inform the public about prevention and victim services. Effective prevention strategies and victim services depend on multidisciplinary partnerships. To prevent future violence, society's social and educational institutions must start teaching young children nonviolent ways to resolve conflict and raise awareness of the negative effects of gender stereotyping. Because the media strongly influence culture, values, and standards in today's society, there should be an examination of violence and gender stereotyping in both news and entertainment, along with research on how such patterns affect individuals in the areas of relationships and solving conflicts. Appended supplementary information, a 92-item bibliography, and a list of resources