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Rape Myth Acceptance, Gender Roles, and Sexual Conservatism: An Intergenerational Study of Mothers and Daughters in Religious and Secular Communities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the relationships between rape myth acceptance (RMA), traditional gender roles, sexual conservatism, and belief in a just world among Jewish mothers and daughters in Israel, comparing religious and secular communities. A total of 151 mother-daughter pairs (76 religious, 75 secular) participated. Regression and path analyses were conducted to explore intergenerational transmission of gender and sexual attitudes. Findings indicate that religious women endorse more traditional gender roles, sexual conservatism, and RMA than secular women, with mothers generally holding more conservative attitudes than daughters. However, intergenerational differences were more pronounced in religious groups, suggesting exposure to global and pluralistic values among younger religious women. Path analysis revealed that mothers' RMA mediated the transmission of conservative gender attitudes to their daughters. These findings highlight the role of familial socialization and societal exposure in shaping attitudes toward gender and sexual violence. The study underscores the need for targeted educational interventions to challenge rape myths and promote gender equality, especially in conservative societies.

Source: Journal of Interpersonal Violence

DOI: 10.1177/08862605251368853

Authors: Mally Shechory Bitton, Shir Hadad

Institution: Ariel University

Language: English

Topic: Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900