An Exploratory Analysis of Sexual Violence and Rape Myth Acceptance at a Small Liberal Arts University

Abstract

Male perpetrated sexual violence is a highly prevalent, but underreported, crime on college campuses. Experts state that in order to effectively deal with the problem of sexual violence, it is important to determine the severity and nature of the problem. The purpose of this study was to provide data based evidence to define the actual problem of sexual violence on a specific college campus in order to raise awareness and provide baseline data for further examination of the issue of sexual violence. Risk factors for sexual violence were examined as well as demographic information for male and female students to determine the prevalence of sexual violence and the relationship of these known risk factors with incidents of sexual violence. Alcohol, Greek membership, athletic participation, and rape myth acceptance were analyzed to determine which factors contributed to the problem of sexual violence within this particular setting. Results indicate that sexual violence is a problem that warrants attention and further examination on this campus. Fifty seven female students reported experiencing 229 incidents of sexual violence, with being taken advantage of while too drunk as the most common tactic used against them. Twenty-nine males reported perpetrating 129 incidents of sexual violence. Female athletes were found to have a higher level of acceptance of rape myths than female students not participating in athletics. Fraternity members were found to have a lower level of acceptance of rape myths than male students not belonging to a Greek organization. Future research should be directed at repeat victims and perpetrators, as the numbers indicate a small number of men and women experienced a substantial portion of the sexually violent experiences. Implications for prevention and intervention were discussed to ensure that victims are being assisted and the student population, as well as the entire campus community, is educated on the realities of sexual violence.