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Feminist Theory

Feminist theory understands rape as a cultural phenomenon requiring interventions beyond the personal and interpersonal. It is the foundation of the anti-rape movement (Rozee & Koss, 2001). Feminist theory articulates sexual violence in the context of a rape culture, a complex system of beliefs that encourages male sexual aggression and supports violence against women (Buchwald et al., 1993). Interpreting sexual violence as a foreseeable consequence of rape culture has a profound effect on sexual violence prevention strategies. Sexual violence is seen as a continuum of behaviors instead of an isolated, deviant act. Feminist models of sexual violence hold that it is not inevitable, and can be prevented by making changes to societal norms surrounding sexuality, violence, gender, and oppression (hooks, 1989).
(Lee, Guy, Sniffen, Mixson 2007)