Combating Sexual Assault With the Military Ethic

Abstract

This article explores sexual assault within the military by focusing on the role of norms and institutional culture. This article asserts that poor impulse control is, in part, at the root of sexual assault offenses. The “military ethic,” however, provides a promising institutional means to stigmatize sexual assault and further acculturate service members into law-abiding norms. The military ethic exalts obedience and self-sacrifice. The military ethic is theorized as a norm that may challenge or alter the attitudes and characteristics underlying sexual assault. Additionally, the question of whether the military fosters an institutional “culture of rape” is analyzed. Research into offenders’ motives is discussed, with a focus on the significance of self-control in offending conduct. Research on the features of successful preventive programs is considered. The article concludes by proposing a norms-based preventive policy targeting offender attitudes and capitalizing on successful preventive programs.