Rape myth acceptance: a non-western perspective

Sham Ku, Deniece Kimberly (2015). Rape myth acceptance: a non-western perspective. University of Birmingham. Foren.Psy.D.

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Abstract

The majority of research on rape myth acceptance (RMA) has been reported from a largely North American and European perspective. While this has certainly advanced our understanding of the area, generalising the experiences of western populations fails to take into account the sociocultural factors that are embedded in the realities of sexual violence across non-western societies. This thesis aims to examine RMA in non-western countries.

Following the Introduction, a systematic review of the existing literature on the demographic and attitudinal factors associated with RMA in adults in non-western societies (Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East) is presented. The results are consistent with western findings, however, the paucity of available research in non-western societies indicates a need for further research. In the next chapter, an empirical study contributes to this limited evidence base by exploring the relationship between RMA and a number of demographic and attitudinal factors, using a sample population of men and women from Jamaica. Participants’ RMA was measured using the Acceptance of Modern Myths about Sexual Aggression (AMMSA; Gerger et al., 2007). The AMMSA was appraised in terms of its psychometric properties in the penultimate chapter and was considered to be an appropriate choice of psychometric instrument for the study. The final chapter draws the thesis together by discussing the main findings and implications for future research and practice.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.

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