Masculine Gender Identity Dysfunction Among Rapist Subgroups.

Abstract

Several clinical classification systems for rapists have been proposed, all of which assume a relationship between longst and ing personality patterns in the rapist and the particular way that the rape is carried out. This study hypothesized a relationship between two aberrant patterns of masculine gender development and two modes of rape described by Cohen et al. (1971) in their clinical classification system. A relationship was predicted between a Stage I resolution of gender identity, centrally characterized by continuing feminine identifications, a passive-dependent orientation and a diffuse or idealized definition of maleness, and a Fusion Rape. A relationship was also predicted between a Stage II resolution of gender identity, centrally characterized by an extreme and stereotypic view of masculinity, sadistic feelings toward women and an active orientation, and an Anger Rape. The predicted relationships were not found. The results showed that the two forms of gender dysfunction could be reliably coded using the Early Memories Test, and there was modest evidence that the characteristics hypothesized to distinguish them did so. Rape type was also reliably coded, and two subsets of highly related rape items were derived. However, the hypothesized relationships between gender stage and rape type were not found. A Refined Rape Behavior Coding Scheme devised for this study emerged as the best of several schemes for coding rape type. This scheme is similar to aspects of a decision tree operationalization of rape type evolved independently by professionals at the Massachusetts Treatment Center. The value of this study is seen to lie primarily in its contribution to increased rigor in conceptualization and method for the study of rape. Specific problems are addressed concerning the selecting of subjects and the securing of an accurate account of the rape.