Description
As the prevalence of rape on college campuses continues to grow communication research surrounding rape must be expanded as well. Current communication research evaluates rape as a result of a miscommunication; this thesis research challenges that notion. Through the application of selective information processing theory to undergraduate males' understanding of nonverbal sexual refusal cues, consent and rape can be examined. In order to study selective information processing of nonverbal cues, this thesis is comprised of two phases. Phase One is a pilot test demonstrating whether selective information processing is occurring in the minds of undergraduate male. Phase Two consists of focus groups, used to illuminate the most effective methods of educating undergraduate males of consent and selective information processing. Selective information processing has the potential to change the focus of research and expand our understanding of the communication or lack of communication surrounding rape. Implementing the methods used by this thesis can expand the field of communication in new and innovative directions. This research allows for communication scholars to challenge current beliefs, as well as critique and change the current definitions, interactions, and understandings of rape.
