Sexually Violent Media and Criminal Justice Policy (From The Media and Criminal Justice Policy, P 103-123, 1990, Ray Surette, ed. -- See NCJ-125773)

• NCJ Number: 125779
• Author(s): D J Imrich; C Mullin; D Linz
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 21 pages
• Sale Source: Charles C. Thomas
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter discusses recent research on the relationship between exposure to pornography and attitudes about rape and rape victims, the implications of this research for understanding self-reports of sexual coercion and assault, and studies that have attempted to link pornography consumption with criminal behavior.

Abstract

The review concludes that certain forms of pornography (i.e., violent pornography) may foster antisocial attitudes about rape and rape victims. These same attitudes may, in turn, be predictive of self-reports of sexually coercive behavior; however, there is no definitive evidence of a direct link between exposure to violent pornography and self-reports of sexually coercive behavior. Malamuth's Attraction-to-Sexual-Aggression Scale has helped identify men at risk for future sexual coercion. Men so identified should be encouraged to become involved in intervention programs that educate them about images of rape in the mass media. Since studies do indicate that some rapists and child molesters use sexually explicit materials in preparation for a criminal act, treatment programs should take into account the use of these materials and discourage clients from using them. Longitudinal studies should monitor those men adjudged to be at risk of sexual violence and who have been exposed to its media portrayals so as to record their behaviors. 2 tables, 33 references.