Dublin Rape Crisis Centre survey reveals concerning attitudes toward sexual violence

A survey conducted by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre has revealed significant misconceptions regarding sexual violence and consent in Ireland. The research indicates that 37% of men under the age of 25 believe a rape victim bears at least partial responsibility if they were under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Overall, 15% of all adults surveyed held this view.

The study also found that 20% of adults believe there are “a lot” of false rape allegations in the country. Furthermore, only 22% of respondents believe that victims of sexual violence are treated fairly by the Irish justice system. Regarding social openness, 43% of adults feel Ireland is a country where victims can speak openly about their experiences, a figure that drops to 38% among women.

Dublin Rape Crisis Centre Chief Executive Rachel Morrogh attributed the prevalence of harmful narratives among young men to a lack of regulation in online spaces. In response to the findings, the organization plans to launch a pilot programme next year focused on positive masculinity to address these attitudes and promote effective consent education.