NCJ Number
234835
Journal
Women & Criminal Justice Volume: 21 Issue: 2 Dated: April-June 2011 Pages: 123-140
Date Published
April 2011
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This study examined the importance of modes of communication in the context of acquaintance rape.
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 andin some casesthe 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. (Published Abstract)