Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026

Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation of the Posterior Medial Frontal Cortex to Experimentally Reduce Ideological Threat Responses
Published on: September 28, 2018
Rape myth attitudes in rural Kenya: toward the development of a culturally relevant attitude scale and "blame index"
Paula Tavrow1, Mellissa Withers, Albert Obbuyi
1Department of Community Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Box 951772, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. ptavrow@ucla.edu
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.
Related Concept Videos
Fundamental Attribution Error
Attitudes
Motivational Bias
Self-Serving Bias
Halo Effect
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
