Citation

Brecklin LR, Ullman SE. J. Interpers. Violence 2005; 20(6): 738-762.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Self-defense classes aim to prevent violence against women by strengthening women's capacity to defend themselves; however, little research has examined the effects of self-defense training on women's attempts to fight back during actual attacks. This study investigated the relationship of self-defense or assertiveness training and women's physical and psychological responses to subsequent rape attacks (N = 1,623).Multivariate analyses showed that victims with preassault training were more likely to say that their resistance stopped the offender or made him less aggressive than victims without training. Women with training before their assaults were angrier and less scared during the incident than women without training, consistent with the teachings of self-defense training. Preassault training participants rated their degree of nonconsent or resistance as lower than did nonparticipants, perhaps because they held themselves to a higher standard. Suggestions for future research on wome's self-defense training and rape prevention are offered. (Abstract Adapted from Source: Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 2005. Copyright © 2005 by SAGE Publications)

Rape Prevention
Sexual Assault Prevention
Victimization Prevention
Adult Female
Adult Victim
Female Victim
Violence Against Women
Self Defense
Prevention Program
Assertiveness Training
Training Program
Program Effectiveness
12-05