Men who commit sexual violence and rape come from all social, economic, and age groups, often appearing as "ordinary" individuals rather than being strangers. Motivations are typically rooted in a desire for power, control, hostility, and entitlement, rather than just sexual desire. Many are acquaintances of the victim.

Key characteristics and common factors found in studies of perpetrators include:

Lack of empathy: A callous disregard for the feelings and safety of others.

Hostility towards women: Deeply held misogynistic beliefs or a sense of male entitlement.

Rigid gender roles: Belief in traditional male dominance and entitlement to sex, even within relationships.

"Rape Myth" acceptance: Believing that victims are responsible for assault or that sexual violence is justified.

Background factors: A history of childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect.

Peer influence: Associations with friends who hold misogynistic views or encourage sexual coercion.

Other factors: High levels of narcissism, impulsivity, alcohol misuse, and a high frequency of sexual activity or preference for non-consensual scenarios.

Research indicates that there is no single "type" of rapist, but rather a combination of social, psychological, and situational factors that lead to such behavior.

Rape Crisis England & Wales

https://rapecrisis.org.uk/get-informed/about-sexual-violence/myths-vs-realities/#:~:text=Myth%20%2314,Myth%20%2316

https://www.dw.com/en/the-pelicot-case-the-psychology-of-a-rapist/a-54814540

https://www.binghamton.edu/news/story/5138/dating-dangers-which-men-are-most-likely-to-commit-sexual-assault#:~:text=According%20to%20their%20findings%2C%20factors,or%20benevolent%3B%20and%20low%20empathy.