When Screams Are Not Released: A Study of Communication and Consent in Acquaintance Rape Situations |
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Authors: | Jacob Bucher Michelle Manasse |
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Affiliation: | 1. Department of Social Sciences , Baker University , Baldwin City, Kansas, USA jake.bucher@bakeru.edu;3. Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice , Towson University , Towson, Maryland, USA |
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Abstract: | This study examines the importance of modes of communication in the context of acquaintance rape, using 96 reported cases of acquaintance rape from a southeastern law enforcement agency. Through the demographic characteristics of each acquaintance rape, as well as the testimonies of the complainants and—in some cases—the accused, this research reveals the way in which victims communicate their responses to these attacks. A typology of modes of communication clearly emerges from these qualitative data. The patterns of communication further underscore the likelihood of passive responses, particularly the complete lack of communication when the victim “freezes.” The implications of such response modes are considered. |
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Keywords: | communication consent rape victimology |
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