Public Perceptions of False Rape Allegations

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Recent studies have increasingly focused on false rape allegations reported to law enforcement, primarily involving criminal justice personnel and experts. However, research exploring public perceptions of the frequency of such false reports remains limited. This study addresses this gap by examining the influence of demographics, personal experiences with rape (either personal or through acquaintances), and belief systems (including gender roles and rape myths) on public perceptions of the prevalence of false rape reports for both female and male victims. We analyzed responses from 1,245 adults in the United States who participated in an online survey. Our findings indicate that participants generally perceive a higher incidence of false reporting by women (16%) compared to men (10%). Notably, male respondents estimated higher rates of false reporting for both genders compared to female respondents. The findings were robust, with several variables consistently associated with higher estimates of false reports, irrespective of the victim's gender. These variables include being male, possessing only a high school education or less, endorsing both female and male rape myths, and subscribing to dichotomous gender roles.

Authors

• Scott Walfield, East Carolina University

• Alison Cox, East Carolina University