Rape myth beliefs and bystander attitudes among incoming college students.

OBJECTIVE The bystander approach to rape prevention is gaining popularity on college campuses, although research is limited. This study explored bystander attitudes and their relationship with rape myths in a sample of college students. PARTICIPANTS Surveys from 2,338 incoming undergraduate students at a large, northeastern university were analyzed. METHODS Participants completed revised versions of the Illinois Rape Myth Acceptance Scale and the Bystander Attitude Scale. RESULTS A higher acceptance of rape myths was reported by males, those pledging a fraternity/sorority, athletes, those without previous rape education, and those who did not know someone sexually assaulted. A greater willingness to intervene as a bystander was reported by females, those who had previous rape education, and those who knew someone sexually assaulted. Acceptance of rape myths was negatively related to willingness to intervene. CONCLUSIONS Bystander intervention programs should include content on rape myths as well as focus on the role of gender.