Challenging Rape Myths in the Classroom

• In Event: Creating a Safe Space: Addressing Sexual Violence on College Campuses

Abstract

With nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 71 men sexually assaulted in their lifetimes, it is likely that most Americans at some point will either be assaulted or know a survivor of sexual assault. Survivors of sexual assault can experience a variety of serious consequences, such as: issues with alcohol and substance abuse, anxiety disorders, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and suicidal ideation. These consequences are compounded when a survivor faces a negative reaction from informal (family and friends) and/or formal (e.g. police and health care professionals) disclosure partners. As educators, we have the unique opportunity to deconstruct rape myths with our students – many of them who will eventually be formal and informal disclosure partners. This research provides two active learning techniques for challenging rape myths in the classroom both in face-to-face and online settings.

Authors

• Anna E. Kosloski, University of Colorado Colorado Springs

• Bridget K. Diamond-Welch, University of South Dakota