Citation

Sanday PR. Violence Against Women 1996; 2(2): 191-208.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12295459

Abstract

This paper summarizes the comparison between rape-prone and rape-free campus cultures. The concept of rape-free versus rape-prone were obtained from the study of 95 band and tribal societies in which 47% were rape-free and 18% were rape-prone. Rape-prone behavior is associated with environmental insecurity, and females are treated as objects to be controlled as men struggle to retain or gain control of their environment. On the other hand, a rape-free campus is relatively easy to imagine, but difficult to find. Decision-making is by consensus, and interpersonal interaction is guided by respect for the individual. This article declares that no rape-free campuses have been identified by research. However, the following pointers would lead to identifying such campuses. First, incidence and prevalence data should be obtained. Second, more subtle measures should be used for the types of sociocultural correlates such as drinking intensity; using pornography to learn about sex; bragging about sexual conquests; setting women up to display one's masculinity to other men; heterosexism; homophobia; and using pornography as a guide to female sexuality. Finally, a consensus should be developed on the criteria for labeling a campus either rape-free or rape-prone.

Language: en