The study developed a conceptual framework from an initial case study of an alleged gang rape at Florida State University involving four fraternity men and an 18-year-old coed. Newspaper articles about the case were analyzed, and open-ended interviews were conducted with several respondents about the case and about fraternities, rape, alcohol use, gender relations, and sexual activities on campus. Research findings indicated that fraternities were vitally concerned with masculinity. Fraternity men worked hard to create a "macho" image and context and tried to avoid any suggestion of "wimpishness," effeminacy, and homosexuality. They displayed or were willing to go along with a narrow conception of masculinity that stressed competition, athleticism, dominance, winning, conflict, wealth, material possessions, willingness to drink alcohol, and sexual prowess. Fraternities knowingly and intentionally used women for their benefit, and fraternity organization and membership contributed heavily to coercive and often violent sex. Brotherhood norms required "sticking together" regardless of right or wrong; thus, rape episodes were unlikely to be reported to outsiders, even when witnesses disapproved. The use of alcohol without scrutiny by authorities and alcohol's frequent association with violence, including sexual coercion, facilitated rape in fraternity houses. 49 references and 1 note