The Feminist Perspective on the Prevention of Rape
Feminist perspectives on rape prevention stress the importance of addressing the root causes and shifting the emphasis from the perpetrators to the social structures and cultural norms which enable or condone it (Ullman 2022). This perspective holds that rape does not occur as a result of individual disease or complication, but is a sign of patriarchy and systematic oppression. These feminists argue that efforts to prevent rape should focus on challenging and dismantling oppressive systems, and promoting gender equality. This approach requires that boys are socialized in a manner that challenges toxic masculinity, and encourages them to value the dignity and autonomy of everyone. Teaching boys to identify and reject damaging cultural messages regarding what it takes to be “real men” such as that they should be sexually aggressive and dominant (Ullman 2002). The rape prevention effort should be centered on consent and healthy communication rather than telling women how they can protect themselves, according to feminists. It means that both men and woman should be educated about how important it is to respect boundaries and seek affirmative consent prior to engaging in sexual activity. (Ruck,2021). Cont…