NCJ Number
225470
Journal
Trauma, Violence, & Abuse: A Review Journal Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2009 Pages: 69-85
Date Published
January 2009
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This article provides an overview of the reported patterns of sexual violence against women and children in China.
Abstract
This article reviews the prevalence of and risk factors for various types of sexual violence in China and discusses community knowledge and perceptions of these violent acts. The types and magnitude of various offenses is presented, to include sexual violence in spousal relationships; sexual violence victimization and harassment; rape; violence in dating relationships; sexual child abuse; violence against sex workers; and internet sexual violence. Also critically examined are three existing major problems of sexual violence research in China. First, the diversity of findings and study methods reported by surveys and criminal reports reflects the problems in obtaining accurate figures on the scope of the problem. Second, precautions must be taken in reading studies on Chinese culture-specific risk factors for domestic violence. Lastly, the study of culture-specific factors should not focus solely on cultural factors in a vacuum but rather, should examine traditional culture in the context of modern societies and consensus of international standards of human rights. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the reported patterns of sexual violence against women and children in China, and also offers recommendations for future research. Tables and references