Examining the effect of awareness-raising efforts and rape myths on attitudes toward survivors of sexual assault

• Published in: Sexual offending Vol. 18
• Main Authors: Avcı, Melike, Arı, Ela
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: PsychOpen GOLD/ Leibniz Institute for Psychology 05.12.2023
• Subjects: attitude; awareness video; rape myths; scenario; survivor; turkey
• ISSN: 2699-8440; 2699-8440
• DOI: 10.5964/sotrap.9965

The aim of this study is to measure the effect of rape myths and an awareness raising video on attitudes toward survivors of sexual assault. Participants were exposed to rape myths presented in nontraditional, traditional, and neutral conditions, followed by an awareness video explaining these myths. Attitudes were measured both before and after the video in each scenario condition, with a total of N = 101 participants from Turkey. A 3x2 factorial design was employed, utilizing the Illinois Rape Myth Acceptance Scale (Payne et al., 1999, https://doi.org/10.1006/jrpe.1998.2238) and Attitudes toward Rape Victim Scale (Ward, 1988, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-6402.1988.tb00932.x). The results indicated a positive shift in attitudes following the awareness video, with significant effects observed in the traditional and nontraditional scenario conditions but not in the neutral condition. Positive correlations were found between rape myths and attitudes toward rape victims, suggesting that an increase in rape myths was associated with more negative attitudes toward survivors. Gender differences were not observed in terms of rape myths, but females exhibited a positive change in attitudes after the awareness video, while males did not. Clinical Impact Statement This study provides helpful insights for a wide range of professionals working with survivors of sexual violence, helping to understand how attitudes toward different lifestyles can change. It emphasizes the essential role of awareness-raising activities in delivering support to survivors and intervention professionals. In the context of our fast-paced society, future research should prioritize the implementation of various concise information initiatives, thereby creating opportunities for disadvantaged individuals.