RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GENDER ROLE STEREOTYPE AND PERCEPTION TOWARDS SEXUAL ASSUALT AMONG ADULTS

Abstract

Gender role stereotypes are deeply ingrained cultural beliefs about how men and women should behave. These stereotypes can play a significant role in shaping people's perceptions of sexual assault, particularly among adults. Studies have shown that individuals who hold more traditional gender role beliefs are more likely to blame victims of sexual assault and to view perpetrators as less culpable. This is because traditional gender roles often emphasize male dominance and female submissiveness, which can lead people to believe that women who are sexually assaulted were somehow "asking for it." Addressing these harmful stereotypes is essential in reducing sexual assault and creating a more just society.  The study aimed to investigate the association between gender role stereotypes and perception towards sexual assault in adult participants. Gender role stereotypes are beliefs or expectations that people hold about how men and women should behave, based on societal norms and cultural values. Perception towards sexual assault refers to how people perceive and judge sexual assault, including attitudes, beliefs, and willingness to take action against it. The study used a questionnaire to measure gender role stereotypes and perception towards sexual assault in 140 participants, consisting of 70 males and 70 females. The results of the study showed a positive correlation between gender role stereotypes and perception towards sexual assault among females , males , and both genders combined.