Essay The Psychological Explanations of Rape - 798 Words

Rape is an experience which shakes the foundations of the lives of the victims. For many its effect is long term, impairing their capacity for personal relationships, altering their behaviour and values and generating fear, Temkin (1986:17). Rape is an extremely controversial issue and this notion is supported based on the fact that basic definitions and explanations of rape usually directly correlate with a states lawful definition of rape. This proves problematic as many peoples explanations and definitions of rape are quite different to that of the law. Social science theorists argue that rape is a learned action with which society plays a crucial role, Ellis (1989). Based on this theory it seems only logical to propose that there†¦show more content†¦They do agree, however that rape adaptation in human males is psychological. In order to support their theory they use the sexual behaviour of scorpion flies Thornhill and Thornhill (1987), in which the male may gain sex from the female either by presenting a gift of food through a notal organ) during courtship or without a nuptial offering, in which case force is necessary to restrain her. Human males do not have a similar rape organ, but Palmer et al (2000) argue that the rape adaptation is found in the male psyche, however it is not only the male psyche that leads to rape. As Darwinists, Thornhill and Palmer see themselves as having the only valid explanation of rape, they dismiss social science and feminist theories. Feminist analysis has argued that the patriarchal system of gender inequalities which empowers men and oppresses women underpins sexual violence and that stratification and social control are fundamental elements in the sexual domination of women Brownmiller (1975:4). Feminist scholarship has argued that rape ideology encourages and justifies sexual coercion, trivializes sexual violence and demeans and devalues women who have experienced sexual assault. The foundation of this argument is based on womens experiences in patriarchal societies. Due to the fact thatShow MoreRelatedRape Can Be Defined As Being Unlawful And Unconsented Vaginal Or Anal Penetration?1546 Words   |  7 PagesRape can be defined as being unlawful and unconsented vaginal or anal penetration. The source of penetration varies and includes penetration by using the finger, penis, or objects and can be penetrated into the mouth or the anus. The American Heritage college dictionary definition of rape, page 740 is â€Å"a sexual act committed by force especially on a woman†. There are several different types of rape that exist in the law. 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