Abstract

Despite legal reforms and growing social media discourse, sexual violence in Japan remains underreported due to cultural taboos and the influence of insular sub-societal structures. This study examines the structural factors that sustain sexual violence, focusing on sub-societies—distinct groups with unique norms that shape attitudes and responses to such violence. Drawing on Durkheim’s concept of collective consciousness, Weber’s analysis of power structures, and Giddens’ theory of structuration, the study explores how sub-societal norms perpetuate and conceal sexual violence. Through an interdisciplinary review of English and Japanese literature, the findings highlight power imbalances, gender inequality, and the closed nature of sub-societies as key contributors. Examples include sports clubs, fraternities, workplaces, and the entertainment industry, where internal norms often override legal standards, fostering environments that condone abuse. To counter these hidden influences, this article proposes: (1) reforming sub-societal norms to promote zero tolerance for sexual violence, (2) strengthening whistleblower protections, and (3) implementing audits and external monitoring, including establishing an independent national human rights institution. This study underscores the structural role of sub-societies in sustaining sexual violence, providing a foundation for further research and policy interventions.