Understanding slut-shaming in the school context: Evidence for a novel form of bias-based peer victimization

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Reference

Martin-Storey A, Dirks MA, Exner-Cortens D, Holfeld B, Lambe L, Craig W. (2026). Understanding slut-shaming in the school context: Evidence for a novel form of bias-based peer victimization. Journal of School Violence.

Abstract

Social sanctioning for real or perceived sexual or sexualized behavior is commonly referred to as slut-shaming. While slut-shaming is common in school contexts, gaps remain in understanding both the individual and school-climate factors associated with slut-shaming and the consequences of slut-shaming for school outcomes like school attendance. Employing a sample of 1200 youth (ages 12–18; M = 14.69, SD = 1.87), this study linked slut-shaming victimization with (a) individual and school-level characteristics relating to bias-based victimization and safety for marginalized students, and (b) skipping school for safety concerns accounting for demographic factors, school context, and overlapping constructs (i.e. peer victimization, sexual harassment, and bias-based victimization). Findings suggest the need to address slut-shaming specifically in intervention and prevention approaches aimed at improving school climate.

DOI