Remarkably similar to other male aggressors, the incest offender has been taught to reflect societal values of masculine and sexual behavior. He often feels responsible for his family and is unable to ask for or receive the affirmation and acceptance he needs. When he fails to live life successfully, he resorts to the power of his genitals. On the societal level, these beliefs are reinforced by beliefs that implied ownership rights exist between males and females and adults and children, particularly in family constellations. Implicit in this norm is that the 'owned' are different from the owners. This precludes empathy on the part of the owner toward the owned. In addition, an individualistic and achievement-oriented society places heavy pressure on males in family constellations to meet their psychological and material needs alone. The use of force or coercion by the stronger upon the weaker to achieve desired ends is common in our culture and is viewed as even more acceptable when there is an assumption of ownership. 44 references.