The Power of Penetration

Women's social and economic situation has improved to some degree in the last few decades. However, some cultural attitudes have proven difficult for women to overcome. Researchers have described rape as "natural" to explain the persistence of violent sexual abuse towards women (Thornhill and Palmer 2000). This Thesis contests the argument for rape as natural and offers an alternative explanation. In an effort to provide some clarification for the persistent inequality women face, I argue that rape is a core component of gender socialization for both men and women. Men have come to associate their masculinity with violence (sexual and otherwise). Women have survived by submitting to men when attacked, as well as seeking men to be the protector. Ultimately, this relationship between men and women has established a power structure built upon rape and sexual violence. In order to alter the current misperceptions people have in regards to the "nature" of rape, it is important to make accurate representations of rape more available to the public.

Level thesis:degree_level

Master's Degree

Year dc:date.issued

2010

Author dc:creator

• Swing, Samantha

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Ring, Jennifer

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Marini, John
• Detweiler, Jane

• Masculinity
• Power
• Rape
• Women

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright(All Rights Reserved)

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11714/4345

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarwolf.unr.edu:11714/4345