“I Believe What I See”: College Students’ Use of Media, Issue Engagement, and Perceived Responsibility Regarding Campus Sexual Assault

Abstract

The topic of campus sexual assault has received much media attention recently, prompting scholars to examine media effects on students’ attitudes and behaviors. A survey of 567 American college students examined how their media exposure is related to issue engagement, perceived responsibility, and acceptance of rape myths. Results indicated that reading newspaper stories about campus sexual assault might contribute to college students’ victim blaming. Among other media channels examined, social media were found to be highly correlated with students’ engagement with the issue. We also found that victim blaming and acceptance of rape myths could be reduced by raising students’ perceived importance of the issue. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed in detail.