Date of Conferral

4-27-2026

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Jana Price-Sharps

Abstract

This qualitative study explored how internalized RMA impacts survivors’ cognitive processing, coping strategies, and psychological agency, as observed by licensed psychotherapists who treat sexual assault survivors. Despite extensive literature on the societal impacts of RMA, less attention has been given to understanding how these cultural myths are internalized by survivors and manifest intrapsychically, influencing self-perception, self-blame, and identity reconstruction following trauma. Using a phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews with therapists provided meta-level insights into how survivors’ narratives reflect internalized cultural stigma and misogynistic beliefs. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns of maladaptive coping, internalized misogyny, and diminished agency, revealing how deeply embedded societal narratives shape survivor experiences and therapeutic outcomes. Findings from this research deepen theoretical understandings of trauma recovery and support broader advocacy efforts to challenge pervasive rape myths. These findings support social change by advancing public understanding of how rape myths distort survivor self-interpretation, challenging victim-blaming narratives, and informing broader educational and institutional efforts to promote more accurate interpretations of sexual violence.

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