Social Learning Theory: Hypotheses and Evidence (From Theories of Rape: Inquiries Into the Causes of Sexual Aggression, P 33-41, 1989, Lee Ellis -- See NCJ-118654)

• NCJ Number: 118656
• Author(s): L Ellis
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: Hemisphere Publishing Corp
• Publication Type: Research (Theoretical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Four hypotheses related to the social learning theory of rape causes are tested from a review of relevant empirical studies.

Abstract

Two of the hypotheses tested are that rapists should hold attitudes that are more favorable toward rape and toward violence in general than other men; and compared to other males, rapists should display more sexual arousal to depictions of rape and even to general depictions of violence (especially toward women). Other hypotheses are that exposure to violent pornography should increase male propensities to commit rape and to otherwise behave violently toward women; and exposure to pornography that degrades women or depicts them as subservient to men should increase male propensities to subscribe to attitudes conducive to the commission of rape. Although more research related to the social learning theory of rape is required, evidence thus far supports most of the major elements of the theory. Evidence is particularly strong in support of the connection between exposure to violent forms of pornography and rape and aggressive behavior toward women; however, the theory does not account for why some males are more attracted to pornography, especially violent pornography, than other males. Neither does it account for why many males exposed to violent pornography are not inclined to commit rape or adopt attitudes conducive to such behavior.