Introduction

The introduction serves to situate our approach to the book and perspective on campus sexual violence as an institutional problem. It provides current data to legitimize the importance of new perspectives and preventive approaches. The concept of sexual terrorism is introduced and the applicability to sexual violence on college campuses is discussed. While using sexual terrorism as a framework for understanding the systemic nature of campus sexual violence is useful, the chapter explains that the original conceptualization is antiquated and offers an expanded, more inclusive version. Additionally, the introduction recognizes ongoing debates within campus sexual violence work and clearly delineates the role of the neoliberal university in contributing to (not causing) sexual violence on college campuses. Lastly, the chapter draws attention to the specific focus on American institutions and systems and clarifies the use of “victim” and “survivor” throughout the book.