Definition of rape
Rape is a form of sexual exploitation usually characterized by copulation or other related forms of penetration. It is criminal because it lacks consensus between the victim and the perpetrator (Cahill, 2001). In most cases, rape occurs through coercion or taking undue advantage over individuals who lack the capacity to grant valid consent.
Generally, the term rape is used to denote sexual assault and other improprieties that relate to sexual misconduct. According to experts, it is important for people to understand the nature and scope of discourse that relates to rape and other forms of sexual assault. Devoid of such knowledge, it would be difficult for victims to divulge the necessary information to authorities in case of rape (Cahill, 2001).
Law enforcement agencies contend that rape is one of the most prevalent forms of sexual abuse. There are numerous factors that predispose individuals to rape. However, it is important to appreciate the role of medical and psychosocial intervention with regard to provision of care and support for victims of rape. In extreme cases, rape could lead to serious physical injuries or death.
It results in trauma and suffering, thereby leading to secondary health problems that could ultimately cause death. In order to forestall rape, it is important for people to understand various dynamics that characterize rape in modern social settings. In the absence of such empowerment, individuals would find it difficult to combat rape (Cahill, 2001).
Dynamics of rape
Rape is a complex issue that often manifests in diverse areas of engagement in societal setting. It usually suffices in terms of causality, execution, and predisposing factors. Most people define rape based on social, cultural, and economic constructs that define its existence. Most incidents of rape are supported by dynamics that lead to recurrent perpetration (Freedman, 2013).
For instance, there are certain cultural beliefs that seek to entrench sexual violence. Such beliefs and practices amplify family honour and purity with regard to sexuality. Many people are forced to perpetrate sexual violence due to such misguided beliefs and practices (Freedman, 2013). The severity of a rape ordeal depends on various factors that characterize its execution.
For instance, it depends on whether the perpetrator is known to the victim and the procedure involved in perpetration of the abuse. In addition, it depends on the health and wellbeing of the victim (Freedman, 2013). People suffering from terminal illnesses and health complications are more affected by incidents of sexual assault.
The emotional and mental wellbeing of victims also determines the willingness to report or involve law enforcement agents in probing rape incidents. The dynamics of rape are complex because they determine individual and collective reactions to assault. Authorities should sensitize people on the dynamics of rape in order to encourage sharing of information that could lead to apprehension of culpable individuals (Heilbrun, 2004).
Social/cultural factors
Social and cultural factors are crucial elements with regard to propagation of rape. Such factors are responsible for stereotypical patterns of thought that ultimately abet sexual violence. For instance, there are certain social systems where women are considered inferior to men. Such beliefs are responsible for perpetration of uncouth and barbaric behaviour against women (Heilbrun, 2004).
Perpetrators of sexual violence bear no remorse because they feel empowered by their patriarchal inclination. Socialization and cultural inculcation also play a critical role in propagation and sustenance of sexual violence in contemporary social context. Most people are socialized to believe that men are authorities on matters regarding sex and reproductive health. This reality justifies any incidents of sexual impropriety against women (Heilbrun, 2004).
Personal and psychosocial factors
Personal and psychosocial factors also influence the perpetration and sustenance of sexual violence. Most people propagate sexual violence due to personal challenges that distort their view of society (Bonnycastle, 2012). Some people harbour unconventional views regarding the role and place of women in modern world. Such inconsistencies play a critical role in promoting sexual violence and related crimes such as rape.
It is important for individuals to foster positive patterns of thought and behaviour in order to minimize instances of maladjustment with regard to societal ideals and aspirations. Psychosocial factors are also responsible for propagation of sexual violence. This involves negative patterns of behaviour and action concerning human interaction (Bonnycastle, 2012).
Preventing date, acquaintance, and other forms of rape
Due to its complex nature, sexual violence requires extensive and forthright response from individuals in social contexts. The best way to forestall all forms of rape is to ensure that knowledge regarding diverse manifestation of rape is prioritized. Devoid of proper knowledge, it is difficult for people to detect possible cases of sexual impropriety (Bonnycastle, 2012).
Such knowledge also empowers people in ways that enable them to take pre-emptive measures. Devoid of such knowledge, it would be difficult for victims to divulge the necessary information to authorities in case of rape. People should possess the ability to detect inappropriate behaviour during social gatherings or isolated encounters with strangers. They should also have the courage to report strange and inappropriate behaviour to relevant authorities.
References
Bonnycastle, K. (2012). Stranger Rape: Rapists, Masculinity and Penal Governance. Toronto: University of Toronto Press.
Cahill, A. (2001). Rethinking Rape. Newyork: Cornell University Press.
Freedman, E. (2013). Redefining Rape. Cambridge: Harvard University Press.
Heilbrun, A. (2004). Disordered and Deviant Behavior: Learning Gone Awry. Newyork: University Press of America.