While you are correct about the severity and unjust nature of violence against woman, I think you/your family have a very fearful image of society that I believe to be backwards (to a certain extent). I assume you are taking in the images that your mother and the media are providing to you and that the daily news reports of rape and murder committed against women combined with your mother's accounts of what has or may occur has created a very narrow minded image of what "should" (I put this in quotes because there should not be a predetermined relationship between groups, let alone the existing one) be the relationship between men and women: one based on fear and dominance. You may not recognize this but this is the description you are internalizing (and I am not putting the blame on you). This image of women as subordinates is based on nothing more than a violent yet publicized majority. While there are men that commit heinous atrocities, they are not the majority. They are a minority that become relevant because those with authority choose to highlight them to keep others in check and in line with that status quo. What I mean by this is, while there may always be a sense of insecurity or suspicion surrounding your relationships with men, know that not all men are women-hating misogynists that are out to get you. All I ask is that you don't let these feelings of fear, disdain, etc. dictate your future interactions with men and women alike. Also, know that the victim is never to blame, but I assume you already know that based on what you have written. And last but not least, regarding whether or not this misogynistic society will ever change, do not underestimate the power of an individual in changing the status quo. Yet also know that you are not alone in your frustrations and struggles.