Linking Gang Rape and Hegemonic Masculinity: Predicting Intesity of Sexual Assault Victimization

• In Event: Rape Offenders – Characteristics and Archetypes

Abstract

Connell (1987) notes that though not all men ascribe to the heterosexual and homophobic script of hegemonic masculinity, all men must construct their version of masculinity in comparison to the dominant form. This research attempts to explore the different forms of masculinity within sexual assault cases. Specifically, using sexual assault reports (N=1,930) accessed from a southwestern metropolitan police department we assess the differences between gang rape and individual assaults by the intensity of the assault (measured by types of penetration), controlling for age, race, victim offender relationship, and use of physical force or a weapon, on female victims. In this research, we found that gang rape differs from single offender assaults in levels of intensity. Additionally, location of the assault and use of physical force or a weapon also influenced the intensity of the assault. The variance in assault characteristics across groups suggests that men committing sexual assault ascribe to varied forms of masculinity. By exploring the patterns within groups (group assaulters compared to one-on-one assaulters) we can gain a better understanding of not only the prevalence of these crimes, but also how masculinity is constructed among different groups.

Authors

• Lindsey Criswell, Wittenberg University

• Brooke M. Wagner, Wittenberg University