Rape Myth Attitudes in Rural Kenya Toward the Development of a Culturally Relevant Attitude Scale and Blame Index

• NCJ Number: 245692
• Journal: Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 28 Issue: 10 Dated: July 2013 Pages: 2156-2178
• Author(s): Paula Tavrow; Mellissa Withers; Albert Obbuyi; Vidalyne Omollo; Elizabeth Wu
• Date Published: July 2013
• Length: 23 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Rape myth attitudes RMAs can excuse men for rape, placing blame on female victims.

Abstract

Rape myth attitudes RMAs can excuse men for rape, placing blame on female victims. This study identified and classified RMAs in rural western Kenya through 31 focus group discussions with youths and adults. We found that about half of the participants were likely to blame victims unconditionally. Stereotypes about rape victims and perpetrators were rife. Five of seven standardly used RMA categories emerged spontaneously in focus groups, along with a new category: she owed him. Based on the data, we developed a blame index to assess the likelihood of community victim blaming in Kenya. To reduce victim blaming and bring about more prosecutions for rape, community education, teacher training, and reforms of rape laws are highly recommended.