Behind closed doors: Attitudes, dark traits, and perceptions of intimate partner sexual violence

Abstract

This thesis examines intimate partner sexual violence (IPSV), characterised by sexual violence occurring within relationships. A survey of 680 undergraduates explored their attitudes, behaviours, and personality traits, and participants were assigned to read a vignette depicting heterosexual or homosexual IPSV. Findings revealed significant relationships between perpetration of IPSV, non-partner coercion, rape myth acceptance, sexual entitlement, narcissism, psychopathy, sadism, and gender with perceptions of seriousness, perpetrator, and/or victim blame. However, perceptions of severity and blame were similar across conditions. Rape myth acceptance, sexual entitlement, and psychopathy were significant predictors of IPSV perpetration. The results highlight the influence of perceived norms and rape myths on trivialisation, victim blaming, and perpetration. This study supports the nested ecological model framework for IPSV and emphasises the need for inclusive views of sexual minority groups and greater awareness of IPSV perpetrator characteristics.