A Qualitative Study on the Perspective of Generation Z about Victim Blaming in Rape Cases

Abstract

Lots of people nowadays judge quickly in terms of who is to blame or not in a specific case particularly rape that happened in a community, without even knowing why; most of the ones being blamed is the victim that may be in terms of their clothes, alcohol intake, etc. This is what we call “Victim Blaming,” which is very evident nowadays in social media. That’s why the Generation Z, as the upcoming leaders and influencers, should manifest a proper mindset towards things that’ll truly establish a transformative society. So again, who is to blame? The researchers will be executing a Qualitative Study about this topic to address its concerns further. Qualitative research was used entailing Phenomenology as it encompasses an individual’s perceptions towards an experience that are important to understand. The study was conducted in areas along Quezon City, Philippines. The study involved selected students of SMCQC as they are part of Generation Z (ages 14 -23). Non-Probability Sampling was used as informants were selected based on age and location. Data gathering was done from September 18-29, 2018. Researchers conducted interviews, gathered data in social media. The instruments used were the researchers; they used cameras and phones to record. Victim blaming could stem from a failure to empathize with victims and a fear reaction for self-preservation. In particular, this fear can be difficult for some to control. But then we ask ourselves, who is to blame for the action that was already done and is not irreversible? At the end of our study, the researchers were able to gather data about the informants’ awareness of the terms “rape culture” and “victim-blaming,” including the different manifestations of victim-blaming found in social media and the news. According to our findings, participants’ blame victims mostly based on clothing, the setting of crime, and alcohol intake; some believed that victims made certain choices which led to their assault. In conclusion, the majority of the respondents were against victim-blaming, strongly agreeing that rape is unjustifiable and inexcusable. There were a few who blamed the victims outright and directly. Nevertheless, the research showed a more significant reaction against victim-blaming. A few respondents were able to explain the term “rape culture”; the majority had little background regarding it. The majority was able to observe victim-blaming in society; some were able to observe it in conversations and government. Continuing, the researchers recommend a larger population, interview with other age groups, more extended time periods, and it’ll be beneficial if interviews with actual rape victims will be done.