Victim Blaming – Why People Hold Victim Blaming Beliefs

Victim blaming is the common belief that if something bad happens to someone, it must be their fault. This is a very harmful, biased belief that can stop victims and survivors from getting the help they need. Victim blaming can also prevent people from speaking out about their experiences, which can lead to further victimisation and even more harm.

We hear stories all too often about victims of sexual assault, domestic abuse and homicide being blamed by friends, family members and the wider community for what happened to them. Sometimes this is done openly, but more often it happens in subtle ways. For example, saying things like “It was probably her own fault – she was wearing tight clothes, going out at night, taking nude photos on her phone” or “She was the one that let him in – she should have locked the door”.

There are many reasons why people hold these beliefs. Some of the most important ones include:

Belief in a Just World: Some people believe that we live in a just world, which means that if something bad happens to you then it must be your fault because you have done or are doing something wrong. This belief can be hard to shake and can cause a lot of pain for victims, especially when it comes from people they trust.

Projecting Uncomfortable Feelings: Some people use victim blaming as a way to cope with uncomfortable feelings, such as shame. This is why it’s so important to listen to and believe survivors when they tell you about their experiences.

Lack of Empathy: This can be caused by a range of factors, including genetics, upbringing and life experience. People who don’t have a strong sense of empathy may be more likely to hold victim-blaming beliefs.

Personal Values: People with different values can have a big impact on how they perceive the victims of crime and other negative events. People who value individual rights and fairness are more likely to have a more sympathetic attitude towards victims. Those who hold binding values (i.e., those who favour the interests of their group) are more likely to be more biased and victim-blaming.

The Judges We Choose: It’s well documented that judges who hold victim blaming attitudes are more likely to dismiss or reduce the severity of abuse and violence related convictions. This can re-traumatise victims and allow perpetrators to get away with crimes.

All of the above are reasons why it is important to challenge victim blaming whenever we see it, and not just online. We can do this by calling out rape jokes, rejecting victim shaming, and encouraging friends, family and wider communities to listen and believe survivors when they talk about their experiences. We can also do our part by supporting and actively fighting for change in the justice system, such as by signing petitions against lenient verdicts for rapists and abusers. You can find more information about how to take action on this issue here.