#7: Frame

One theory I will use is the Self Control Theory of Crime which explains how an individual lacking self-control may be the main reason as to why they commit criminal behavior, such as rape or sexual assault. This theory may be used to explain how and why the statistics of rape are high on college campuses and why the rape culture continues to thrive. I think it will play a big role in analyzing the victim blaming that occurs.

Some academic terms I will use are:

Rape Culture - The acceptance and normalization of rape and sexual assault from attitudes about gender and sexuality.

Victim Blaming - When the victim of a crime (rape or sexual assault in this case) is entirely or partially for the harm that they experienced. 

Victim Advocate - Professionals who support the victims by providing information, emotional support, resources, and even court assistance. 

Hookup Culture - The acceptance and encouragement of casual sexual encounters, including one-night stands and other related activity, that focuses on physical pleasure instead of focus on emotional or long-term commitment. 

Greek life - The culture of fraternities and sororities on college campuses. 

These terms will help me explain and analyze why and how rape culture is still thriving on college campuses. These terms either contribute to or help rape culture. Rape culture needs to be defined as it is the main topic of my entire paper so I need to state exactly what that is for people who might not know. Victim blaming is something that rape victims often experience after being raped or sexually assaulted, which might be the reason why victims don't come forward and report their assault or the perpetrator in fear of being blamed. Some colleges, Rutgers specifically, have victim assistance departments that act as support and a resource for victims in times of need. They help the victim heal and get justice in anyway the victim prefers, so more college campuses need offices like this. Hookup culture can help explain why rapes are happening and aren't seen as rape because they two people are friends and/or hookup often. Greek life, particularly fraternities, play a big role in rape culture through parties, jokes, attitudes, etc.