The Role of Internalized Biases in Understanding and Detecting Sexual Assault Within African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) Communities

Abstract

Drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) remains prevalent in Canadian post-secondary education despite various efforts to address the issue. Much of the literature has overlooked the Black experience and as a result there is limited understanding of the issue among ACB (African, Caribbean, Black) students. This study used an intersectional theoretical framework to explore ACB students’ understanding and ability to detect sexual assault as bystanders. Additionally, the role of internalized biases such as rape myths and gendered-racial stereotypes were explored. Using an interpretive phenomenological qualitative approach, five university students took part in a virtual semi-structured focus group. Through imaginary exposure facilitated by a vignette of an DFSA incident, participants were asked to imagine themselves as bystanders. Theoretical and Thematic analyses were used to identify four themes in the data. 1.) ACB women are dehumanized. 2.) Their dehumanization is internalized. 3.) Dehumanization is facilitated by Gendered racial stereotypes (GRS) and influences bystander behaviour. 4.) University institutions offer limited sexual health and safety resources. All participants identified the situation as potentially dangerous. They expressed concern for the victim and indicated that they would intervene. All participants identified the internalized biases and their effects on their perception. Findings indicate that most of the participants identified with the victim. Opportunities for interventions were identified.