Rihanna defends shooting a man in revenge for an alleged sexual assault in video?

Rihanna has defended the shooting of a man in revenge for an alleged sexual assault in her latest music video.

The song, titled Man Down, has been criticized for encouraging women to take the law into their own hands and turn to violence.

"Momma, I just shot a man dead... I never been so proud."

In messages on Twitter she said: "Young girls/women all over the world... we are a lot of things! We're strong innocent fun flirtatious vulnerable, and sometimes our innocence can cause us to be naive!

"We always think it could NEVER be us, but in reality, it can happen to ANY of us! So ladies be careful and #listentoyomama! I love you and I care!"

Melissa Henson, from the Parents Television Council, said that "instead of telling victims they should seek help, Rihanna released a music video that gives retaliation in the form of premeditated murder the imprimatur of acceptability".'