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Self-Defense or Undermining the Self? Exploring the Possibilities and Limitations of a Novel Anti-Rape Technology

NCJ Number
247838
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 20 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2014 Pages: 360-368
Author(s)
Deborah White; Gethin Rees
Date Published
March 2014
Length
9 pages
Annotation

Despite decades of feminist-inspired law reforms, rape remains highly prevalent.

Abstract

Despite decades of feminist-inspired law reforms, rape remains highly prevalent. While many continue to fight for broad cultural and institutional changes, some argue that more immediate interventions are required. Self-defense techniques represent a key strategy of resistance to rape, and empirical evidence suggests that women's active resistance may hold a number of positive benefits. In this essay, we compare the aims and objectives of a novel anti-rape technology, known as the Rape-aXe, with traditional self-defense techniques, focusing upon the potential for both to resist individual acts of sexual aggression and, more broadly, end gendered sexual violence. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage.