NCJ Number
89196
Journal
Tijdschrift voor criminologie Volume: 24 Issue: 5-6 Dated: (September-December 1982) Pages: 257-278
Date Published
1982
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This article contrasts the traditional conception of physical victimization of women to the conception which has arisen as a result of the feminist movement. The goal is to show the differing views on 'normal' behavior between the sexes and thus on responsibility for the crimes.
Abstract
Traditionally, assault and rape are defined in terms of explicit physical force. The element most critical to the legal definitions is the nature of the personal relationship between offender and victim. In 'hit and run' rapes, the question of victimization is problematic. But if any previous acquaintance exists between victim and offender, rape is likely to be considered the result of 'normal' sexual interaction. Because of the traditional views of male and female roles, the woman is likely to be accused of precipitating the rape and to be held functionally responsible for motivating the offense. From the biological evolutionary standpoint on which this traditional view of sexual interaction is based, aggression is the natural characteristic of male behavior, and masochism, passivity, and narcissism fundamental characteristics of female behavior. Their motives differ: while men seek sexual satisfaction, women seek long term bonding. Both sides may resort to manipulation or deceit. Feminist perceptions have altered the traditionalist view, postulating sexual victimization of women as the central concept in interpreting patriarchal society. In addition to rape, pornography, prostitution, sexual harassment, and abuse are viewed as social controls on women. Not biological factors, but explicit, fixed sex roles are the male-dominated power structures that define male-female interaction. Therefore, the actual goal of rape is not sexual satisfaction but domination and humiliation of the victim. Notes are supplied.