Time, Place, and Manner: Rape Case Elements on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit”

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Despite data that contradicts them, rape myths (i.e., stereotypes about the crime) are widespread. These myths influence how people think about rape, impacting how people treat victims (i.e., victim blaming) and how professionals in the CJ system carry out justice. Research has demonstrated that when cases align with rape myths, they are more likely to be reported, as well as result in arrest, prosecution, and harsher sentencing; thus, there are real-world implications for these rape myths. The widespread nature of rape myths is largely due to the media’s coverage and depiction of cases, both fictionally and non-fictionally. This project explored how one of television’s most popular crime dramas, “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” portrays rape case. Coders employed a quantitative content analytical approach to investigate the extent to which the show relies on myths in its fictional case designs. This poster will present the results of a 24-season analysis, focusing on myths that center around case characteristics, or elements of the crime that are not offender or victim-focused (e.g., weapon use, location, time, etc.).

Authors

• Annabelle L. S. Gopaul, St. Mary's University

• Trinity Olumba, Texas A&M University

• Jhanvi Parikh, Texas A&M University

• Gemini Creason-Parker, Texas A&M University / Texas State University / Blinn College