Addressing rape culture in the LGBTQ+ community through consciousness-raising: a developmental study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Despite being at increased risk when compared to their cisgender and heterosexual counterparts, LGBTQ+ university students remain invisible or, at best, underserved by current rape prevention programming. The current study outlines the adaptation of a rape prevention programme, Define It!, co-created by the first author and grounded in feminist consciousness-raising efforts and prosocial bystander intervention, to more specifically address the needs of the LGBTQ+ community at a private, Northeastern US university. Through qualitative analysis of student-only focus groups and interviews with stakeholders, the researchers illuminate important differences and commonalities faced by the LGBTQ+ community related to both sexual violence vulnerability and barriers to seeking and receiving help. In addition to expanding awareness of LGBTQ+ students’ lived experiences and unique needs, the authors provide insight into programme adaptation efforts and recommendations for future rape prevention programming.