Abstract:
Communication theory has an integral role to play in analyzing and deconstructing rape culture.
Consent specifically has not been heavily researched in the field of communication studies,
leaving a need for research and theoretical application to better understand how to combat rape
culture and educate on prevention. In this paper, I take a two prong approach to this issue. I first
utilize standpoint theory, symbolic convergence theory, muted group theory, and genderlect
styles to analyze the cases of Brett Kavanaugh, Brock Turner, and Matthew Barnett and the
conversation around them. By applying these theories to real cases, the concepts of hegemonic
masculinity and co-creation of reality are drawn out and discussed, outlining specific areas of
need within prevention and educational programming. After this is done, I analyze two
presentations from Ball State’s Office of Victim Services, utilizing the prior material to define
areas of need in which rape culture can begin to be dismantled at a cultural level.
