Reconstructing and sequencing behaviours in multiple perpetrator rape

Abstract

Much of the existing knowledge base of multiple perpetrator rape (MPR) comes from studies undertaken more than 20 years ago, and thus fails to integrate contemporary perspectives on sexual violence. The current study used Grounded Theory methodology to construct a holistic model of MPR from 15 victim accounts. The model of multiple perpetrator rape (MMPR) included both the actions of the perpetrators and the reactions of the victim in a temporal sequence of 13 categories, 9 of which had sub-categories that allowed for individual differences. Broad themes of MPR were then explored using a total of 101 cases. Each case was coded in the 9 sub-categories where individual differences were allowed from the model. An associative analysis of these sub-categories was then performed using Smallest Space Analysis. Two dominant themes were displayed. The Manipulate theme included two perpetrators who offended sequentially and socialised with the victim. The Force theme did not involve any social interaction, as the force and teamwork of the group enabled the victim to be physically overpowered.

Keywords:

• multiple perpetrator rape
• model
• perpetrators
• victims
• Grounded Theory

Notes

1. Uniform Crime Reports are the primary source of official statistics for rape reported to the police. They include forcible rape, assaults and attempts to commit rape by force or threat of force and against the victim's will; however, statutory rape (without force) and other sex offences are excluded.

2. The data included one perpetrator's age that the police recorded, which tends to be the average age of all of the perpetrators.

3. In some cases of MPR, only one perpetrator commits rape and the additional perpetrators assist in the assault through, for example, physically restraining the victim and/or sexually touching her.