Samenvatting

The impact of the #MeToo movement appears to be mostly positive. As important as it is that attention is paid to sexually transgressive behavior – in whatever context – (the impact of) the #MeToo movement also has its dark sides. This article focuses on the question: What are the downsides of #MeToo? The authors discuss a number of issues that were encountered in their research practice. They discuss (a) uncertainty regarding the (limits of a) violation of standards, (b) misleading or false reports, (c) anonymous reports and hearsay statements and (d) ‘guilty by association’ or ‘trial by media’. It should always be clear whether it concerns facts or, for example, experiences and perceptions. The interests of the accused must not be compromised by unclear standards or neglecting a careful investigative process. The authors argue for clear research questions that support the research and allow sufficient room for both sides to be heard with as little bias as possible. For the victims, care must be taken against double victimization and victim-blaming.