Considering the Role of Leadership and Dominance in Multiple Perpetrator Sexual Assault

Abstract

Multiple perpetrator sexual assault is defined as sexual assault of a victim carried out by more than one assailant (Morgan et al., 2012). Such assaults undoubtedly leave a victim with physical and psychological impairments. It is thus imperative “...to study multiple perpetrator sexual assault as distinct from other sex crimes to isolate any characteristic features and build up a picture of the perpetrators, the victims, and the nature of the assaults” (Morgan et al., 2012, p. 2416). Previous research has noted that such assaults result in substantially higher implications for the victim and more severe forms of sexual violation (Woodhams et al., 2012). To provide further insight, researchers have taken interest in varying group dynamics and the role a leader plays within this context. In this study, the possible linkage between dominant personality characteristics and the likelihood of engagement in a multiple perpetrator sexual assault was examined. Using anonymous online surveys, student participants were assessed on The Personality Scale for Dominance and the Multiple Perpetrator Rape Proclivity Scale (M-PRIS). We hypothesized that dominant personality traits and higher M-PRIS proclivity ratings would be positively correlated. Of 176 respondents, 84 heterosexual males completed both the M-PRIS and the Personality Scale of Dominance. The mean M-PRIS score was 18 (SD=11), and the mean Personality Scale of Dominance was 87 (SD=6). Dominance scores predicted only 1.3% of the variance of the MPRIS score (non-significant, F1,83=1.106, P=0.3). With the exception of a single outlier, participants with low M-PRIS scores also reported low dominance. Initiators and intimidators may be hidden in groups trying to conceal their identities. Therapists should be aware of these deviances and attempt to individually tailor therapy for all members, promoting active participation and safety.