Dissertations@Portsmouth - Details for item no. 14533

!   Bibliographic details and abstracts are available to all. Downloads of full-text dissertations are restricted to University of Portsmouth members who must login. MPhils may be accessed by all.

Long, Millie (2024) Shadows of vulnerability: sexual assault on girls in the night-time economy focusing on the UK. (unpublished BSc dissertation), University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth

Abstract

Sexual assault against women remains an extensive issue in the United Kingdom’s (UK) night-time economy, including bars, clubs, and public spaces (Sheard, 2011; Quigg et al., 2020; Magill et al., 2022). This dissertation examines the prevalence, contributing factors, impacts and potential interventions related to this concern. Through a systematic literature review and using statistics this study will reveal a high level of sexual harassment, unwanted touching, and assault experienced by women during nights out, with estimates reaching up to 98% in some areas (APPG, 2021). The key factors that were identified include alcohol and drug use (Monk & Jones, 2014), inadequate lighting and surveillance (Roberts et al., 2020), and societal attitudes that normalise sexual violence (Nicholls, 2017). Applying feminist theory and routine activity theory, the research explores how gender inequalities and objectification lead to these crimes (Allen, 2022; Becker, 1999). The impacts on victims’ mental and physical health are included to understand the effect these crimes have on the victims. To address this matter, the dissertation proposes multiple strategies such as alcohol regulations, street lighting, surveillance systems, bystander engagement and reform of the pre-existing legal frameworks. This research advocates to create a safer nightlife environment where women can step outside without the fear of assault, combat sexual assault and its damaging effects.

Course: Criminology and Forensic Studies - BSc (Hons) - C2039F

Date Deposited: 2024-11-20

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14533.html