Sydney Lee

Graduation Year

2022

Date of Submission

12-2021

Document Type

Campus Only Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Psychology

Abstract

Sexual assault is a pervasive problem in the United States, and it is more complex than people assume. The most common factor associated with sexual assault is alcohol consumption, but misconceptions about sexual assault (also known as rape myths) are also influential in the perpetuation of sexual assault. Lorenz and Ullman (2016) argue that alcohol’s involvement in sexual assault is cyclical because it impacts behavior and judgment, which creates risky situations and increases the risk of sexual assault. Victims of sexual assault may then abuse alcohol as a coping mechanism, which puts them at additional risk. This paper analyzes literature about the roles of alcohol and rape myths on sexual assault and the interaction between alcohol and rape myths, applying it to suggest new methods for sexual assault prevention. I propose the use of a computer program that targets rape myths and behavioral change in alcohol consumption among male and female college students. This program will be used in conjunction with in-person bystander training.

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This thesis is restricted to the Claremont Colleges current faculty, students, and staff.

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