Rape or romance? Perspectives on sexual assault

Abstract

Societal and legal depictions of victims have historically been, and presently remain, constructed around the two poles of innocent maiden and designing woman. On the basis of these constructions it is determined who is eligible for protection under the law, who is punishable, who deserves social support and who should be scorned. These views permeate our society and effect not only the interested observers but also the behaviors and attitudes of the victims and offenders themselves. This article reviews the statements of victims and perpetrators of sexual assault and compares their descriptions of sexual assault and its aftermath with popular constructions.