CHILDHOOD TRAUMA AND RAPE MYTH ACCEPTANCE IN MEDIA CONSUMERS, MODERATING ROLE OF RELIGIOSITY

Abstract

This study examines the interplay between childhood trauma, religiosity, and rape myth acceptance among media users. Grounded in the hypothesis that stronger religious beliefs may be associated with higher acceptance of rape myths especially among individuals with a history of childhood sexual abuse the research employs a quantitative survey design. Participants with and without experiences of childhood trauma were compared to assess the impact of religiosity on their beliefs. Results indicate that religiosity may amplify the effects of trauma, contributing to greater endorsement of rape myths. These findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive prevention and intervention strategies to address sexual violence and challenge harmful belief systems within religious communities.