Male rape myths in Germany: the German validation of the Male Rape Myths Scale – revised

This study presents the first German validation of the Male Rape Myths Scale—Revised, developed by Hogge and Wang. 328 participants completed an online questionnaire. The German version (MRMS-DE) showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = .94; McDonald’s ω = .95), and confirmatory factor analysis supported the two-factor structure of Marginalisation and Victim Culpability. Men reported higher male rape myth acceptance than women. Regression analyses further showed that endorsement of female rape myths and traditional gender roles significantly predicted male rape myth acceptance. These findings indicate that male rape myths form part of a broader belief system rooted in gender norms, hegemonic masculinity, and sexist attitudes. The MRMS-DE provides a reliable tool for research in German-speaking contexts and may support prevention and intervention efforts addressing stigma, victim-blaming, and barriers faced by male victims of sexual violence.PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENT The present study introduces the first validated German measure for analysing male rape myth acceptance, enabling systematic assessment of attitudes that contribute to stigma, underreporting, and victim-blaming. The results can contribute to evidence-based interventions, educational programmes, and institutional practices aimed at challenging harmful gender norms and improving support for male victims of sexual violence.