Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Olivia Yu

Abstract

Sexual assault is a sensitive topic, and research has become increasingly popular. Most literature focuses on stigma, attitudes, and perceptions that victims and law enforcement have about each other. Law enforcement officers are responsible for making charging decisions based on their investigations and ways by which they determine credibility and reliability of victims. It was unclear what criteria law enforcement officers use to ascertain relevant flaws in victim character and credibility. The purpose of this study was to explore how law enforcement officers evaluate credibility of sexual assault victims during investigations. The feminist legal, just world, and rape myth acceptance theories were the theoretical frameworks for this study. Using a generical qualitative approach and thematic analysis, six participants were interviewed to gather information on personal beliefs underlying views of investigators about sexual assault victims and effects of training, police subculture, and other factors influencing police perceptions of victims of sexual assault. Findings suggested consistency of victim testimonies, victim reputation, and mental health were significant factors in terms of assessing credibility. Additionally, decisions were mainly guided by law enforcement officers’ perception of victim characteristics and demeanor. This study provided several implications for positive social change. Law enforcement agencies can use these results to re-evaluate their procedures and policies surrounding sexual assault investigations. For victims, this study can be used as a tool when meeting with state and federal legislators to improve legislation for victims’ rights in their quest for justice.

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