Abstract
There is widespread scientific evidence that validates tonic immobility (TI) as part of the trauma response in victims of rape, and criminal justice practitioners are increasingly trained in trauma-informed approaches. Yet, legal and policy definitions of consent do not fully recognize TI during the incident as evidence of nonconsent. Using a systematic review of U.S. law and policy regarding sexual violence and consent, this paper analyzes the substantial legal reform of rape law and definitions of consent, suggesting ways to further integrate TI into existing law and legal practices to improve public health approaches and justice responses for victims.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 3111-3139 |
Number of pages | 29 |
Journal | Violence Against Women |
Volume | 30 |
Issue number | 12-13 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 2024 |
Keywords
- affirmative consent
- rape law
- sexual assault
- tonic immobility
- trauma
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Gender Studies
- Sociology and Political Science
- Law