1: Developing a Power-Conscious Framework for Understanding and Addressing Sexual Violence

In this chapter, I share the power-conscious framework as a tool for examining sexual violence among college students. The framework consists of three assumptions: power is omnipresent, power and identity are inextricably linked, and history matters. The framework includes six action-oriented tenets: (a) engage in critical consciousness and self-awareness; (b) consider history and context when examining issues of oppression; (c) change behaviors based on reflection and awareness; (d) name and interrogate the role of power in individual and systemic practices; (e) divest from privilege; and (f) work in solidarity to address oppression. I also share definitions of words used frequently throughout the book.