An exploration of the Rape myths effect on the #MeToo movement acceptance in the UK

In the last few years, the global community saw the rise and later the fall of the #MeToo movement; an activist movement, which empowered survivors of sexual violence. Aiming to get a better understanding of the movement, this study explored how rape myths might be associated with the acceptance of the #metoo movement. Through an online survey, 76 participants from the UK, between 18 and 60 years old, responded to the Illinois Rape Myth Acceptance Scale – Revised and a short questionnaire on the #MeToo movement. Results showed there was a significant relationship between rape myth acceptance and negative perceptions of the #MeToo movement. Moreover, the subcategories of the IRMAS, ‘it wasn’t really rape’ and ‘she lied’, had the biggest relationship and effect on opinions about the #MeToo movement. This might suggest that dismissal and disregard of abusive acts, linked to gender stereotypes, is associated with the resistance towards the #metoo movement; which might lead to education and awareness about sexual violence.