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The complexity of victim-questioning attitudes by rape victim advocates: exploring some gray areas
1Department of Criminal Justice, Widener University, One University Place, Chester, PA 19013, USA. slmaier@mail.widener.edu
Abstract:
Despite efforts to educate and create community awareness, rape myths and victim-blaming attitudes persist in society. This research explores whether advocates express victim-questioning attitudes or questions, negative judgment, or frustration regarding victims' behavior or choices. Data from interviews with 58 advocates reveal that the majority (76%) of advocates never expressed any victim-questioning attitudes during the interview. However, responses from 14 advocates (24%) show that victim-questioning has evolved into a much more complex, subtle form than historical victim blaming or acceptance of rape myths.
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