A study of the detrimental impact of rape mythologies and victim stereotypes in the application of character evidence in jury trials in England and Wales

It is the combination of science with law and society that helps bridge a gap that exists in the current research aiming to explain why reform in this area is necessary.

It begins with an examination of the current research into the prevalence of rape mythologies in society and the courtroom and how these might translate into victim stereotypes. It then explains the psychological studies of cognition and perception and maps these onto the discussions surrounding the successful activation of victim stereotypes at trial and why we must seek reform. The discussion moves to the current legislation in England and Wales surrounding these topics and where gaps in sufficient protections for victims might arise in practice.