Title

Myths and facts about sexual violence: Public perceptions and implications for prevention

Publication Date

2008

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Sex crime prevention policies are influenced by public opinion about sexual violence, and by the belief that such policies are effective in reducing or preventing sexual recidivism. It has been suggested that the public perceptions and atti tudes in this area are based in part on popular myths and misconceptions. The current study examines public perceptions about sexual violence by exploring endorsements of ÒmythsÓ and Òfacts.Ó Data were collected from an online survey posted on a nation - wi de community message board that canvassed 15 states in the U.S. Results suggested that while many community members are fairly well informed about some aspects of sexual violence, certain items were commonly misconstrued. Public attitudes about sexual vio lence and the implications for victim advocacy and public policy are discussed.

Publication Title

Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular Culture

Volume

15

Issue

3

First Page

291

Last Page

311

Publisher Policy

online journal; no SHERPA/RoMEO policy available

Open Access Status

OA Journal

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