Dublin Rape Crisis Centre says sexual violence attitudes are normalising

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) warns that trivialising sexual violence has become more “normalised” in recent years.

Research published by the DRCC found that two in five young men believe rape victims are partly to blame if they have drunk alcohol or taken drugs, and one in five respondents think there are “a lot” of false rape allegations.

DRCC chief executive Rachel Morrogh told The Claire Byrne Show that the rise of the “Manosphere” online is now “part of the problem”, adding that political concern about it is “a decade too late”. She said earlier regulation could have reduced the harm now evident in everyday life.

While 85% of the Irish public wants greater recognition of sexual violence against men, support falls to 75% among young men, Morrogh noted. She questioned whether recent SPHE programmes are having the intended effect.

Morrogh concluded that attitudes toward sexual violence are now more trivialised than in the recent past, and that statements which would have provoked a stronger response five years ago are now met with less opposition.

Anyone affected by sexual violence can contact the DRCC’s free 24‑hour national helpline on 1800 77 8888.

Source: Newstalk. Photo: Mathias Reding / Pexels.