Rape Myths in China: A Systematic Review

This systematic review critically examines research on rape myth acceptance (RMA) within a Chinese context, offering a nuanced understanding of sociocultural, legal, and historical factors that shape attitudes towards sexual violence. In total, five databases were searched: Scopus, ScienceDirect, JSTOR, ProQuest, and AIRITI Library . The inclusion criteria were restricted to peer-reviewed, quantitative studies involving Chinese populations in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan published in English or Chinese between 2000 and 2024. The initial search yielded 1,563 potential articles, reduced to 915 after removing duplicates. After screening articles based on the inclusion criteria, 16 studies were retained for data extraction and analysis. Findings highlight the influence of historically embedded Confucian values, contemporary legal frameworks, and prevailing gender norms on RMA, alongside key attitudinal, sociocultural, and demographic correlates such as adversarial sexual beliefs (ASB), sex role stereotyping, gender, age, and education. Our review also evaluates a range of RMA measurement tools used in China, including the Illinois Rape Myth Acceptance Scale and the Male Rape Myth Acceptance Scale, critiquing their cultural applicability and validity. Despite emerging interest, RMA research in China remains underdeveloped, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive methodologies and interventions. This review concludes by discussing the unique challenges and opportunities for advancing RMA research within China’s complex socio-legal landscape and offers targeted recommendations to inform policy development.