Multiple perpetrator rape: A critical review of existing explanatory theories

•Explanatory theories of multiple perpetrator rape (MPR) are critically examined.•The most comprehensive theory of MPR was proposed by Harkins and Dixon, 2010 and Harkins and Dixon, 2013.•Empirical research is surveyed that supports factors proposed by theories of MPR.•Some evidence was found that supports Harkins and Dixon, 2010 and Harkins and Dixon, 2013 theory of MPR.

Although multiple perpetrator rape is a relatively under-researched area, a few authors have proposed theories to try to explain this complex phenomenon. The majority of these theories only examined some factors that are believed to play a part in multiple perpetrator rape (e.g., socio-cultural factors and group processes). The most recent and comprehensive model proposed is the Multi-Factorial Theory of Multiple Perpetrator Sexual Offending. This article critically examines this theory and the factors and processes that are suggested as contributing to multiple perpetrator rape (i.e., individual, socio-cultural and situational factors including the interactions between them). Some evidence is found to support this model although further research is needed to fully test it.