151
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Hegarty KL, Andrews S, Tarzia L. Transforming health settings to address gender‐based violence in Australia. Med J Aust 2022; 217:159-166. [PMID: 35796723 PMCID: PMC9546247 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Gender‐based violence includes intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other harmful acts directed at people based on their gender. It is common in Australia and causes great ill health, especially for women victims/survivors, with Indigenous women particularly affected. Health services are an opportune place for early intervention for victims/survivors of gender‐based violence as they attend frequently. Interventions that are evidence‐based and respond to consensus from victim/survivor voices include universal education, screening in antenatal care, first line supportive care, and referral for advocacy and psychological interventions, including mother–child work. Health care staff require training, protocols, scripts, referral pathways, understanding of cultural safety and antiracist practice in service delivery, and leadership support to undertake this sensitive work, including support, if needed, for their own experiences of gender‐based violence. Using a trauma‐, violence‐ and gender‐informed approach across health systems, taking into account structural inequities, is essential to sustain the gender‐based violence work in health services. Gender‐based violence experienced by Indigenous women is distinct and of urgent concern as rates rapidly increase. Inequities across the health system are pronounced for Indigenous women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey L Hegarty
- Safer Families Centre University of Melbourne Melbourne VIC
- Centre for Family Violence Prevention, Royal Women’s Hospital Melbourne VIC
| | - Shawana Andrews
- Safer Families Centre University of Melbourne Melbourne VIC
- Melbourne Poche Centre for Indigenous Health University of Melbourne Melbourne VIC
| | - Laura Tarzia
- Safer Families Centre University of Melbourne Melbourne VIC
- Centre for Family Violence Prevention, Royal Women’s Hospital Melbourne VIC
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152
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Bellis AL, Swartout KM, Salazar LF. College-level perceptions of drinking, binge drinking, and sexual violence perpetration: A multilevel mediation model. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022; 70:1688-1695. [PMID: 32924866 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1818756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To determine whether college men's perceptions of campus drinking norms, aggregated at the institution-level, predicted heavy episodic drinking and sexual violence perpetration. Participants: Data were collected from a sample of 1144 first-year male college freshmen enrolled at one of thirty four-year institutions in the state of Georgia. Methods: Four waves of online survey data were collected as part of a longitudinal cohort study completed in 2016. Results: Perceptions of campus drinking norms aggregated at the institution-level significantly predicted college men's heavy episodic drinking. Heavy episodic drinking mediated the relationship between perceptions of the typical students' drinking behavior and perpetration of sexual violence, such that participants at institutions with higher levels of perceived drinking norms reported more heavy episodic drinking and sexual violence perpetration. Conclusions: Findings from this study provide further support for the inclusion of broader campus-level prevention strategies as part of a comprehensive approach to preventing sexual violence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin M Swartout
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Laura F Salazar
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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153
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Blanco V, López L, Otero P, Torres ÁJ, Ferraces MJ, Vázquez FL. Sexual Victimization and Mental Health in Female University Students. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP14215-NP14238. [PMID: 33866840 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211005148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Although sexual assaults on female university students are a public health concern, studies that have examined this issue have not used behaviorally specific definitions of the various types of sexual victimization. Furthermore, hardly any data exists on female Spanish university students. The objectives of this study were to analyze the prevalence of different forms of sexual assault against female Spanish university students, determine the risk factors associated with sexual assault, analyze the association between sexual victimization and mental health problems, and determine the differential risk of more serious types of sexual assault. A cross-sectional study was conducted among a random sample of 871 students from the University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain) (mean age 20.7 years, SD = 2.8). The current study assessed various types of sexual violence (i.e., unwanted sexual contact, attempted coercion, coercion, attempted rape, rape), as well as rates of depression, anxiety, stress, eating disorders, substance abuse, suicide risk, and suicide attempts. Of the female students surveyed, 28.5% had suffered some form of sexual violence during the previous year, 22.3% reported unwanted sexual contact, 8.8% attempted coercion, 6.5% coercion, 10.4% attempted rape, and 7.9% had been raped. Lower risk was associated with having a partner and being heterosexual. Being 18 years of age and prior experiences of sexual victimization were associated with higher risk. Being the victim of attempted coercion was associated with a higher risk of depression, while victims of attempted rape were at higher risk for substance use. Rape victims were at the highest risk for all mental health conditions studied, with the exception of suicide attempts. Due to the high rates at which Spanish female university students experience sexual violence, planning and resources are needed to address their mental health needs, especially those who are victims of rape.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lara López
- University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
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154
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Gilmore AK, Walsh K, López C, Fortson K, Oesterle DW, Salamanca NK, Orchowski LM, Davis KC. Sexual Assault Victimization: Latinx Identity as a Protective Factor for Sexual Minorities. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP12542-NP12563. [PMID: 33691510 PMCID: PMC8429509 DOI: 10.1177/0886260521999122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Sexual assault victimization is an experience that impacts many college students, and rates differ based on ethnicity and sexual minority status. However, little is known about the impact of the intersectionality of Latinx and sexual minority identities on sexual assault severity among college students. The current study examined past year sexual assault victimization severity based on sexual orientation and Latinx identities among a random sample of college students (n = 506). Further, factors associated with past year sexual assault victimization severity were examined among sexual minority participants (n = 170). Among all college students, identifying as a cisgender woman, sexual minority, or having a more severe sexual assault history was associated with higher past year sexual assault victimization severity. Further, among sexual minorities, identifying as Latinx or having fewer drinks per week were associated with less severe past year sexual assault victimization. Although preliminary, this finding suggests a need for future research to examine potential cultural factors associated with Latinx populations that may serve as protective factors for sexual assault victimization among college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda K Gilmore
- Department of Health Policy & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University
- Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development, School of Public Health, Georgia State University
| | - Kate Walsh
- Departments of Psychology and Gender & Women's Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Cristina López
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Kennicia Fortson
- Department of Health Policy & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University
- Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development, School of Public Health, Georgia State University
| | - Daniel W Oesterle
- Department of Psychological Sciences, College of Health and Human Science, Purdue University
| | - Nashalys K Salamanca
- Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development, School of Public Health, Georgia State University
| | - Lindsay M Orchowski
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital
| | - Kelly Cue Davis
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University
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155
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Yalch MM, Watters KN, Gallagher AR. Influence of Personality Traits on Post-Traumatic Cognitions of Sexual Assault. J Trauma Dissociation 2022; 23:416-431. [PMID: 34641762 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2021.1989121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Sexual assault is a common form of trauma that is associated with psychological distress for many people who experience it. One factor that influences the degree to which sexual assault survivors exhibit distress is the cognitions they form related to the assault in its aftermath. The more times the assault happens, the more disruptive are the post-traumatic cognitions, although both the frequency of sexual assault and nature of post-traumatic cognitions differ by gender. Another factor that may influence post-traumatic cognitions is personality, which emerging research suggests has an influence on post-traumatic response in general and post-traumatic cognitions in particular. However, there is little research on the influence of personality on post-traumatic cognitions related to sexual assault specifically. In this study, we examine the association between personality traits (Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Neuroticism, and Openness) and post-traumatic cognitions of sexual assault in a sample of sexual assault survivors recruited from Amazon's Mechanical Turk (N = 303) using a Bayesian approach to multiple regression. Results suggest that although the influence of traits varied depending on the post-traumatic cognition under analysis and the sex of the sexual assault survivor, Neuroticism was the primary predictor of post-traumatic cognitions over and above sexual assault frequency, although this applied more for men than for women. Study findings clarify previous research on the role of personality traits in post-traumatic response and suggest directions for future research and clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew M Yalch
- Department of Psychology, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, California
| | | | - Alana R Gallagher
- Department of Psychology, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, California
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156
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Osman SL, Nicholson JP. Predicting Body-Esteem Based on Type of Sexual Victimization Experience. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP12685-NP12694. [PMID: 33682519 DOI: 10.1177/0886260521997439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Almost no research exists examining the relationship between body-esteem and sexual victimization experience in adulthood. The current study contributes to the literature by examining body-esteem based on type of sexual victimization experience (i.e., none, sexual contact, attempted sexual coercion, sexual coercion, attempted rape, rape). Participants included undergraduate women (n = 750) who completed the Body-Esteem Scale (Franzoi & Shields, 1984) and the Sexual Experiences Survey-Short Form Victimization (Koss et al., 2007), and had either no history of sexual victimization experience or experience within the past year. Women with no sexual victimization experience did not differ from women with sexual contact experience, but both groups reported higher body-esteem than women with coercion, attempted coercion, and rape experience. These three latter groups did not differ from one another, but each reported lower body-esteem than women with attempted rape experience, who reported higher body-esteem than those with no experience. Findings are preliminary but suggest that body-esteem may be negatively associated with some types of sexual victimization experience (attempted and completed coercion, rape), but not others (sexual contact, attempted rape), and escaping rape may increase positive feelings toward one's body.
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157
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Sharpless L, Kershaw T, Hatcher A, Alexander KA, Katague M, Phillips K, Willie TC. IPV, PrEP, and Medical Mistrust. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:283-290. [PMID: 35364598 PMCID: PMC9203922 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective HIV prevention method for women experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV). This study aimed to examine (1) relationships between physical, sexual, and psychological IPV and women's PrEP communication with a health care provider and domestic violence advocate; and (2) how IPV-specific medical mistrust modifies the association between IPV and PrEP communication. METHODS Data were from 2 studies conducted in Connecticut and Baltimore, MD on adult women experiencing IPV (N = 272). Logistic regressions examined associations between IPV, PrEP communication, and IPV-specific medical mistrust. RESULTS The average age was 25.7. The most common identity was non-Hispanic black (37.1%), followed by non-Hispanic white (33.8%), Hispanic (20.6%), and non-Hispanic another racial group (8.5%). Higher severity of psychological IPV was associated with more embarrassment to initiate a PrEP discussion with a health care provider (P = 0.009) or domestic violence advocate (P = 0.026). However, women with more severe psychological IPV were more willing to accept a PrEP recommendation from a health care provider (P = 0.033) or domestic violence advocate (P = 0.044). IPV-specific medical mistrust modified the association between physical IPV and willingness to accept a PrEP recommendation by a domestic violence advocate, such that women with physical IPV were significantly less likely to accept a PrEP recommendation by a domestic violence advocate, but only for women with high IPV-specific medical mistrust (P = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS PrEP initiation among women experiencing IPV may be strengthened by addressing and dismantling systems that perpetuate IPV-specific medical mistrust and stigma against IPV survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel Sharpless
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill NC, USA
| | - Trace Kershaw
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven CT, USA
| | - Abigail Hatcher
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill NC, USA
| | - Kamila A. Alexander
- Department of Community Public Health Nursing, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Marina Katague
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla CA, USA
| | - Karlye Phillips
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Tiara C. Willie
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
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158
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Champion A, Oswald F, Pedersen CL. Forcible, Substance-facilitated, and Incapacitated Sexual Assault Among University Women: A Canadian Sample. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP11198-NP11222. [PMID: 33541214 PMCID: PMC9251737 DOI: 10.1177/0886260521991297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the frequency of sexual assault experiences in a sample of university women to understand the conditions under which sexual assault occurs, and compare alcohol and drug consumption patterns on the likelihood of experiencing sexual victimization. While patterns of victimization have been examined in American contexts, research on contemporary Canadian contexts is scant at present. We found that roughly 58% of the 377 university women in our sample attending one of three large Western Canadian universities in British Columbia reported having been sexually assaulted. These women reported a total of 528 incidents of sexual assault, with 56% of these involving substance-related nonpenetrative sex acts; 312 incidents were substance-related and 216 involved forcible sexual assault. The likelihood of sexual assault victimization was the highest among participants who identified as a sexual minority, consumed marijuana, and reported greater severity of recent alcohol consumption. The present research aims to inform sexual assault prevention and education efforts to reduce occurrences of victimization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Flora Oswald
- Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA
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159
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Toplu-Demirtaş E, Fincham FD. I Don't Have Power, and I Want More: Psychological, Physical, and Sexual Dating Violence Perpetration Among College Students. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP11490-NP11519. [PMID: 32840154 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520951319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to (a) explore the prevalence of, and gender differences in, self-reported physical, sexual, and psychological violence perpetration in dating relationships (i.e., not married or engaged), (b) evaluate the factorial validity of the Power Perceptions and Power Satisfaction Questionnaire in dating relationships, and (c) document the mediating role of power satisfaction in the associations between power perception and physical, sexual, and psychological dating violence perpetration. College students (N = 812) completed the Power Perceptions and Power Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Psychological Aggression, Physical Assault, and Sexual Coercion subscales of the Revised Conflict Tactics Scale. Gender differences emerged in the prevalence of physical (43.0% for women and 35.0% for men) and sexual violence (25.0% for women and 41.8% for men) but not psychological violence (80.1% for women and 75.5% for men). Exploratory factor and parallel analyses yielded two subscales of power perceptions and power satisfaction, which explained 40.56% of the variance. Mediation analyses revealed that college students who perceived lower relationship power were more dissatisfied with that relationship power and, in turn, perpetrated more physical, sexual, and psychological violence against their partners. The mediation effects were evident in both women and men. The implications of the current findings for future research and mental health professionals at colleges are outlined.
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160
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Steele B, Martin M, Yakubovich A, Humphreys DK, Nye E. Risk and Protective Factors for Men's Sexual Violence Against Women at Higher Education Institutions: A Systematic and Meta-Analytic Review of the Longitudinal Evidence. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2022; 23:716-732. [PMID: 33176596 PMCID: PMC9210109 DOI: 10.1177/1524838020970900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Sexual violence among higher education institution (HEI) students is a growing public health concern. To date, there is little evidence on how to effectively prevent sexual violence among this demographic. This study is the first systematic review to meta-analyze all available evidence for risk and protective factors of sexual violence perpetrated by men at HEIs. We searched four electronic databases and multiple gray literature sources. We screened studies using prespecified selection criteria for the sample (HEI students who identify as men), outcome (sexual violence perpetration against peers), and study design (quantitative and longitudinal). Longitudinal studies provide the most rigorous available evidence on risk and protective factors. We identified 16 studies and meta-analyzed eight different risk factors: alcohol consumption, hostility toward women, delinquency, fraternity membership, history of sexual violence perpetration, rape myth acceptance, age at first sex, and peer approval of sexual violence. We deemed included studies to have a varied risk of bias and the overall quality of evidence to range from moderate to high. History of sexual violence perpetration (perpetration prior to entering an HEI) emerged as the strongest predictor of sexual violence perpetration at HEIs, complicating the notion that HEI environments themselves foster a culture of sexual violence. Peer support for sexual violence predicted perpetration while individual rape-supporting beliefs did not. Our findings suggest that interventions targeting peer norms (e.g., bystander interventions) and early sexual violence prevention and consent interventions for high school and elementary school students could be effective in reducing and preventing sexual violence at HEIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Steele
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mackenzie Martin
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alexa Yakubovich
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David K. Humphreys
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Nye
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
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161
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Edwards KM, Ullman SE, Siller L, Murphy SB, Harvey R, Wheeler L. What relates to length of stay in a sober living home among women with histories of victimization and addiction? A longitudinal analysis. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 50:2508-2514. [PMID: 35032398 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Despite preliminary research suggesting that length of stay in sober living homes (SLHs) is related to sustained sobriety, little research has examined factors that relate to length of stay in SLHs. The purpose of the proposed exploratory study was to prospectively examine baseline characteristics of women with histories of addiction and victimization as correlates of length of stay in a trauma-informed, gender-responsive SLH. Participants (N = 45) were surveyed three times over a 1-year period. Women were invited to participate within a week of their arrival to the SLH. Nearly two-thirds (62.2%, n = 28) of women stayed under 3 months, and 37.8% (n = 17) of women stayed over 3 months. Whereas older age and greater financial worries were associated with staying over 3 months at the SLH, other variables (e.g., demographics, mental health, recent victimization, recent substance use) were unrelated. Findings indicate that efforts may be needed to ensure that younger women as well as women with less financial worries, who may be less likely to stay for longer periods of times at SLHs, have adequate support for sobriety.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Siller
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | | | - Ronald Harvey
- American University in Bulgaria, Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria
| | - Lorey Wheeler
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
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162
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Bynion TM, Willis M, Jozkowski KN, Wiersma-Mosley JD. Women's disclosure of college sexual assault: Greek-life status does not influence disclosure. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022; 70:1543-1551. [PMID: 32924859 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1810052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Due to high prevalence rates of sexual assault among college-aged women and the benefits of disclosure (e.g., emotional well-being), it remains important to consider barriers to disclosure. The current paper aimed to examine if barriers to disclosure may be more salient to sorority women. Participants: We examined differences in rates of hypothetical willingness to formally disclose (N = 693) and actual formal/informal disclosure (N = 584) as well as mental health as a function of Greek-life status among college women. Method: Two separate online surveys were administered (October, 2016; January, 2017), respectively. Results: Findings suggest no significant differences in rates of hypothetical or actual formal/informal disclosure as a function of Greek-life status; however, Greek-life members reported lower mental health. Conclusion: Findings from the current studies suggest that institutional factors (e.g., campus climate) may serve as a barrier to disclosure. Limitations and future directions in this important area are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teah-Marie Bynion
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, USA
| | - Malachi Willis
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, USA
| | - Kristen N Jozkowski
- Community Health Promotion, The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
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163
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Marcantonio TL, Willis M, Dobbs P. Examining Women's Sexual Assault Victimization Experiences since Entering College via Two Behavioral Assessments. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:780-791. [PMID: 34788182 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1994912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Measuring sexual assault experiences is considered a methodological challenge in survey research. Researchers can test the validity of sexual assault measures by comparing responses to different, albeit related, measures of sexual assault to determine if they identify similar groups of women. The goal of this study was to compare two measures of sexual assault victimization to determine if women report experiencing sexual assault in both assessments. Cisgender college women (n = 902) completed two separate measures of sexual victimization: the Sexual Coercion Inventory (SCI) and Sexual Experience Survey-Short Form Victimization (SES-SFV). Responses to both measures were coded to identify different sexual assault experiences (i.e., unwanted touching, attempted, and completed oral, vaginal, or anal rape) resulting from verbal coercion, threats of force, and use of force since enrolling in the university. Results suggested the SES-SFV produced higher overall rates of sexual assault experiences than the SCI. Specifically, the SES-SFV elicited more non-consensual sexual experiences resulting from threats and use of force, whereas the SCI elicited more non-consensual sexual experiences resulting from verbal coercion. Findings suggested discrepant responding across the two measures. Development of comprehensive sexual assault measures that fully capture women's victimization experiences is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany L Marcantonio
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, University of Arkansas
- Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction
| | | | - Page Dobbs
- Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, University of Arkansas
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164
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Edwards KM, Siller L, Ullman SE, Lee KDM, Murphy SB. Post-traumatic Growth in Women With Histories of Addiction and Victimization Residing in a Sober Living Home. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP11180-NP11197. [PMID: 33541201 DOI: 10.1177/0886260521991283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Research consistently documents the deleterious sequelae of interpersonal trauma, including domestic and sexual violence (DSV). More recently, however, researchers and practitioners have focused on positive outcomes, such as post-traumatic growth (PTG), in survivors of DSV. Although research has begun to document the prevalence and correlates of PTG, no study to our knowledge has explored PTG in a sample of women with histories of addiction and victimization residing in a trauma-informed sober living home (SLH). The purpose of the current study was to examine this gap in the literature. Participants were 59 women (89.8% White; 86.4% heterosexual; mean age = 41.6) who completed a survey while residing in a SLH. Most women reported moderate to high levels of PTG. At the bivariate level PTG was related to less depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and financial worries, and greater active coping, and sense of community. PTG was also related to the absence of past 6-month physical intimate partner violence. In regression analyses, PTG was related to less depression and greater sense of community. These data offer insights into modifiable factors such as fostering a sense of community while also promoting mental health treatment that could be the focus of interventions to increase PTG in women with histories of addiction and victimization residing in SLHs.
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165
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Davis KC, Neilson EC, Kirwan M, Bird ER, Eldridge N, George WH, Stappenbeck CA. The Interplay of Sexual Arousal and Power-Related Emotions in Men's Alcohol-Involved Sexual Aggression Intentions. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:765-779. [PMID: 34520295 PMCID: PMC8918440 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1972923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Research has identified power/dominance and sexual arousal as key motivators of men's sexual aggression; however, little research has examined the interplay of these two factors in alcohol-involved sexual aggression. Two alcohol administration experiments investigated the roles of power-related sex motives and power- and sexual arousal-related emotions on men's sexual aggression intentions. In Study 1, participants (N = 96) read a sexual aggression scenario after random assignment to consume either an alcoholic (target peak BrAC = .10%) or nonalcoholic beverage. Results indicated that power-related sex motives indirectly predicted stronger sexual aggression intentions through greater in-the-moment power-related emotions but not through sexual arousal-related emotions. Intoxicated men with more severe perpetration histories reported stronger sexual aggression intentions. In Study 2, participants (N = 203) completed similar measures after random assignment to receive either a brief emotion regulation-focused intervention (cognitive restructuring or mindfulness) or a control, followed by either alcohol (target peak BrAC = .08%) or nonalcoholic beverage consumption. Results demonstrated that greater power-related sex motives indirectly predicted stronger sexual aggression intentions through greater feelings of power and sexual arousal. Additionally, findings suggest that cognitive restructuring approaches may mitigate these relationships in sober men, while mindfulness approaches may exacerbate these relationships in intoxicated men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Cue Davis
- Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Phoenix, AZ 85004
| | | | - Mitchell Kirwan
- Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Phoenix, AZ 85004
| | - Elizabeth R. Bird
- Seattle VA Medical Center, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA 98108
| | - Nolan Eldridge
- Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Phoenix, AZ 85004
| | - William H. George
- University of Washington, Department of Psychology, Seattle, WA 98195
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166
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Patterson MS, Prochnow T, Russell AM, Barry AE, Fehr SK. Associations Between Sexual Assault Victimization and Risky Drinking Within College Women's Personal Networks. Violence Against Women 2022; 28:2603-2623. [PMID: 35754385 DOI: 10.1177/10778012221077128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Within a sample of college women, this study assessed if an individual's (i.e., ego) history of sexual assault was related to her connecting with risky drinkers, and if her social contacts (i.e., alters) who had experienced sexual assault were also people who engaged in risky drinking. Results suggest ego's history of sexual assault was associated with her connecting to risky drinkers. Generally, egos reported alters who experienced sexual assault were more likely to drink in higher quantities, except when the ego and alter both had experienced sexual assault. Findings highlight the importance of social connections for survivors of sexual assault.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Adam E Barry
- 2655Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Sara K Fehr
- 2655Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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167
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Lim S, Ali SH, Mohaimin S, Dhar R, Dhar M, Rahman F, Roychowdhury L, Islam T, Islam N. Help seeking and mental health outcomes among South Asian young adult survivors of sexual violence in the New York State Region. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1147. [PMID: 35676672 PMCID: PMC9174918 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13489-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual violence is a growing issue faced across diverse South Asian American communities under the backdrop of a distinct religious and cultural environment that intersects with the ability to prevent and manage this public health crisis. There is also growing attention on sexual violence experienced by younger or second-generation South Asian Americans, although little is known on the prevalence of this violence and its impact on health outcomes. Using data from a community-driven sexual violence survey, this study describes the experience of sexual violence and related help seeking behaviors and mental health outcomes among 18-34-year-old South Asian Americans living near the New York (NY) State region. METHODS Participants were recruited via social media to participate in an anonymous survey developed in partnership with an advisory board of South Asian young adult representatives. Data was analyzed descriptively and through adjusted logistic regression models. RESULTS Overall, responses from 335 sexual assault survivors were analyzed. Types of assault experienced included no-contact (97.6%), contact (75.2%), rape attempts (50.2%), rape (44.6%), and multiple rape (19.6%). Many reported perpetrators were South Asian (65.1%) or family members (25.1%). Only 27.6% indicated they had reported assaults to authorities or received services. In adjusted analyses, odds of help seeking were higher among participants who were older (AOR:1.10, 95%CI:1.02-1.20), were a sexual minority (lesbian, gay, bisexual) (1.98, 1.05-3.71), had a family member as the perpetrator (1.85, 1.01-3.40), had lower disclosure stigma (1.66, 1.16-2.44), and experienced depression (2.16, 1.10-4.47). Odds of depression were higher among sexual minority participants and lower among those with higher sexual assault disclosure stigma (3.27, 1.61-7.16; 0.68, 0.50-0.93). CONCLUSIONS Findings call for greater targeted policy interventions to address the prevention of sexual violence among young South Asian Americans and greater focus on improving help seeking behaviors and improving mental health outcomes among survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahnah Lim
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shahmir H Ali
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, 708 Broadway, New York, NY, 10003, USA.
| | - Sadia Mohaimin
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ritu Dhar
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Moitrayee Dhar
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Farzana Rahman
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Liza Roychowdhury
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tanzeela Islam
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nadia Islam
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
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168
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Flanders CE, Tarasoff LA, VanKim N. Sexual Violence and Mental Health among Young Bi+ and Lesbian Women and Gender Minoritized People. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN MENTAL HEALTH 2022; 27:483-502. [PMID: 38078053 PMCID: PMC10706698 DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2022.2072036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Sexual minoritized people report worse mental health and are at risk of sexual violence compared to their heterosexual peers. Method We conducted a survey to explore sexual stigma, sexual violence, and mental health among 326 bi+ and lesbian women and gender minoritized people age 18-25. Results Mental health did not differ by sexual identity; sexual stigma and violence were associated with negative mental health symptoms, as were identifying as BIPOC, as trans or nonbinary, or having less formal education. Conclusion Sexual stigma and violence are related to mental health among young bi+ and lesbian women and gender minoritized people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey E Flanders
- Department of Psychology and Education, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075. (413) 538-2052
| | - Lesley A Tarasoff
- Department of Health and Society, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, ON
| | - Nicole VanKim
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA
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169
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Gómez JM. When solidarity hurts: (Intra)cultural trust, cultural betrayal sexual trauma, and PTSD in culturally diverse minoritized youth transitioning to adulthood. Transcult Psychiatry 2022; 59:292-301. [PMID: 34913370 PMCID: PMC9149028 DOI: 10.1177/13634615211062970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Sexual trauma is associated with PTSD, with perpetrators putting women and girls more at risk than men and boys. Young adulthood is a time where risk of victimization and susceptibility to mental health problems increase. Certain contributors of costly trauma outcomes may be affected by the larger context of societal inequality. Cultural betrayal trauma theory (CBTT) highlights cultural betrayal in within-group trauma in minoritized populations as a dimension of harm that affects outcomes. In CBTT, within-group trauma violates the (intra)cultural trust-solidarity, love, loyalty, connection, responsibility-that is developed between group members to buffer against societal inequality. This violation, termed a cultural betrayal, can contribute to poorer mental health. The purpose of the current study is to address a gap in the CBTT literature by examining the role of (intra)cultural trust on the association between cultural betrayal sexual trauma and symptoms of PTSD among diverse minoritized youth transitioning to adulthood. Participants (N = 173) were diverse minoritized college students, who completed a 30-min online questionnaire at a location of their own choosing. Participants received course credit and could decline to answer any question without penalty. The results reveal that the interaction between cultural betrayal sexual trauma and (intra)cultural trust predicted clinically significant symptoms of PTSD. These findings have implications for increased cultural and contextual specificity in trauma research in minoritized populations, which can aid in the development and implementation of culturally competent interventions for diverse minoritized youth survivors of sexual trauma.
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170
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Blayney JA, Jenzer T, Jaffe AE, Carroll Q, Read JP. Friends-Based Protective Strategies and Unwanted Sexual Experiences: A Daily Diary Examination of First Year College Women. PSYCHOLOGY OF WOMEN QUARTERLY 2022; 46:162-175. [PMID: 36874947 PMCID: PMC9980431 DOI: 10.1177/03616843221085219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Risk for unwanted sexual experiences can emerge in social contexts-the same contexts that early college women navigate with their friends. Though friends naturally engage in prevention strategies, less is known about how capable guardianship influences risk. Using multilevel structural equation modeling, the present study examined guardianship at the person- and situation-level. First year college women (N = 132) completed eight weekends of daily surveys. We examined whether guardianship (e.g., more friends present, greater proportion of female friends, no intoxicated friends) would reduce unwanted sexual experience risk and if this relation was mediated by friends-based strategy use. An alternative model was also tested with the same predictors, but unwanted sexual experiences as the mediator and friends-based strategy use as the outcome. Over half (58%) of extended weekend nights with friends involved drinking or using drugs. Friends-based strategies were used on 29% of nights. Across models, being with one or more intoxicated friends was associated with friends-based strategy use and an unwanted sexual experience, but only at the situation-level. Parents, educators, and policy makers can encourage college women to draw on their social networks to enhance safety. Interventions could incorporate more universal strategies for responding to risk in social contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Blayney
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tiffany Jenzer
- Department of Psychology, State University of New York, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Anna E Jaffe
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Quinn Carroll
- Department of Psychology, State University of New York, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer P Read
- Department of Psychology, State University of New York, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
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171
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Garrido-Macías M, Valor-Segura I, Expósito F. Women's Experience of Sexual Coercion and Reactions to Intimate Partner Sexual Violence. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP8965-NP8988. [PMID: 33307951 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520980394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Sexual coercion is one of the most subtle manifestations of gender-based violence and may profoundly affect victims' sexuality. This research analyzed the association of previous experiences of sexual coercion by an intimate partner (intimate partner sexual coercion [IPSC]) with women's reactions and responses to a scenario of sexual violence. Female college undergraduates (N = 207) completed a computer task in which they watched a video about a couple that ended in a woman having unwanted sex with her male partner. Participants answered several questions about tolerance (risk recognition, risk response, delays in behavioral response, and probability of leaving the relationship). They also responded about their level of commitment to their current partner, as well as their previous experience of sexual coercion. Results showed no differences between victims and nonvictims on the time they took to perceive the situation of sexual violence as threatening (risk recognition). However, victims of current sexual coercion took more time deciding to leave the abusive situation of the video (risk response), required a greater time lag between risk recognition and risk response, and they would be less likely to leave the relationship than victims of past sexual coercion and nonvictims. Finally, commitment predicted later risk recognition and risk response only for victims of past sexual coercion. Overall, the results suggested that previous sexual coercion by an intimate partner and being committed to the relationship may be risk factors associated with the increase of women's tolerance toward situations involving the risk of sexual victimization.
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172
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Walfield SM, McCormack PD, Clarke K. Understanding Case Outcomes for Male Victims of Forcible Sexual Assaults. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP6929-NP6957. [PMID: 33092454 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520967154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
While rape and sexual violence have long been a widespread social problem, and one that has garnered significant attention, research that specifically examines the phenomenon of male victimization of sexual violence remains lacking. Addressing the gaps in the research, the current study uses 10 years of law enforcement data from the United States' National Incident-based Reporting System (2007-2016) on sexual victimization of males 14 years of age or older. The study sought to assess the impact of victim, offender, and incident characteristics associated with the outcome of the case (i.e., open, arrest, and exceptional clearance due to the victim declining or the prosecution refusing to pursue the case) for 20,701 male victims who reported a forcible sex offense to law enforcement as well as agency variation for cleared crimes. Using multilevel multinomial logistic regression, exceptionally cleared cases are more likely to resemble open cases than those resulting in arrest with incident characteristics having a larger influence than victim and offender characteristics. Cases involving concomitant offenses, committed by a stranger, resulting in injury, increase the likelihood of arrest-all of which support the "real rape" hypothesis. Exceptionally cleared cases represent more than one-third of cleared cases and there is significant department variation in the usage of exceptional clearance, as a number of agencies are exceptionally clearing more than half of their cleared cases, artificially increasing their clearance rate. These results, in conjunction with research on female victims, suggests that the handling of sexual assault cases reported to law enforcement remains problematic.
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173
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Couture S, Hébert M, Fernet M. Validation of a French-Canadian adaptation of the Hurlbert Index of Sexual Assertiveness for adolescents. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2022.2067981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Couture
- Department of Sexology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Martine Hébert
- Department of Sexology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Mylène Fernet
- Department of Sexology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
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174
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Minority Identity, Othering-Based Stress, and Sexual Violence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19074221. [PMID: 35409901 PMCID: PMC8998422 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19074221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background: Some (minority) groups (MGs) are more vulnerable to sexual violence (SV) exposure than others. Othering-based stress (OBS) may mediate the relationship between minority identification and SV. This study aims to assess the prevalence of SV in different MGs to explore the relationship between minority identification and SV, to investigate whether belonging to multiple MGs moderates this relationship, and to explore OBS SV moderation for different MGs. Method: Through an online survey administered to a nationally representative sample in Belgium, data was collected from 4632 persons, of whom 21.01% self-identified as belonging to a MG (SI-Minority). SV prevalence was measured using behaviorally specific questions based on the WHO definition of SV. SI-Minority participants received an additional scale on OBS. Results: SI-Minority participants reported more SV victimization compared to the non-minorities. However, this increased risk was not moderated by minority identification but linked to the socio-demographic SV risk markers common to minority individuals. Multiple-minority participants were found more at risk of SV compared to single-minority respondents. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, pan-/omnisexual, asexual, and other non-heterosexual (LGB+) participants were found more at risk than heterosexual participants. OBS was found to be significantly correlated to SV in sexual and gender minorities and in cultural minorities. Conclusions: This study contributes to our understanding of the relationship between minority identification, OBS, and SV. Studying both specific and common SV vulnerabilities and outcomes within specific societal subgroups and the general population may inform policy makers when allocating resources to those interventions with the largest societal impact.
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175
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Newlands RT, Denning DM, Massey KS, Benuto LT. Safe Dating in the Digital Era: Protective Behavioral Strategies in Dating Behaviors Facilitated by Dating Applications. VIOLENCE AND VICTIMS 2022; 37:185-200. [PMID: 35354656 DOI: 10.1891/vv-d-19-00173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Focus groups were conducted to examine college women's perceptions of the risks of dating app dating, how risks are mitigated, and if risk identification and mitigation strategies differ by sexual victimization status. Over 60% of the sample reported a history of sexual victimization. The risk associated with dating app use fell into three themes: unsafe sexual situations, deception, and non-sexual interpersonal violence. Participants' self-reported risk mitigation strategies included logistical strategies, investigative strategies, social strategies, instinctual strategies, and safety planning strategies. Sexually victimized women reported greater or comparable risk identification and risk mitigation strategies as non-victimized women, suggesting difficulties in risk responding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory T Newlands
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, Untied Sates
| | - Dominic M Denning
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, Untied Sates
| | - Kaiya S Massey
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, Untied Sates
| | - Lorraine T Benuto
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, Untied Sates
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176
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Computerized Intervention in Primary Care for Women Veterans with Sexual Assault Histories and Psychosocial Health Risks: a Randomized Clinical Trial. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:1097-1107. [PMID: 34013470 PMCID: PMC8971224 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-06851-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Sexual assault is a public health concern for women and is associated with subsequent psychosocial health risks of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), hazardous drinking, and intimate partner violence (IPV). Sexual assault is associated with social stigma and other barriers shown to inhibit one from seeking mental health care. Digital health technologies may overcome these barriers. OBJECTIVE To test the impact of a brief computerized intervention delivered in primary care to reduce health risks and increase mental health treatment utilization among women with histories of sexual assault and current health risks. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS The Safe and Healthy Experiences (SHE) program was tested in a randomized controlled trial with N = 153 women veterans at a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical center, and they completed assessments at baseline, 2 months, and 4 months. INTERVENTION SHE is a brief motivational interviewing and psychoeducation-based computerized intervention. SHE was compared to a screen and referral-only control condition. MAIN MEASURES Health risks were measured via validated self-report instruments. Treatment initiation and utilization were measured via self-report and chart review. RESULTS SHE did not impact women's number of health risks (all p's > .05). However, women randomized to SHE showed significantly greater increases in treatment use compared to women in the control group, as measured by chart review (χ2 (1, n = 153) = 4.38, p = .036, rs = .16), and self-report (χ2 (1, n = 130) = 5.89, p = .015, rs = .21). SHE was found to be an acceptable intervention. CONCLUSIONS SHE was effective in improving mental health treatment initiation and utilization compared to a control group. Computer-based interventions to address sexual trauma and its consequences are acceptable, are highly scalable, and can add value to primary care with little cost or increase in provider time. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02957747.
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177
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Orchowski LM, Oesterle DW, Moreno O, Yusufov M, Berkowitz A, Abbey A, Barnett NP, Borsari B. A Qualitative Analysis of Sexual Consent among Heavy-drinking College Men. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP5566-NP5593. [PMID: 32990140 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520958658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The current study sought to examine how heavy-drinking college men describe communication of sexual interest and sexual consent. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 12 heavy-drinking college men identified three themes. Themes included: (a) expectations about parties and sexual activity, (b) observing and communicating sexual interest, and (c) communication of sexual consent. Men reported visiting drinking environments to locate women who they assumed would be open to sexual advances. In these environments, sexual interest was inferred indirectly through shared alcohol use. Anticipating token resistance men reported "trying and trying again" to pursue escalating types of sexual activity. Consent was inferred when participants did not hear "no" from a sexual partner, highlighting the importance of continued education on verbal consent in the context of sexual assault prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Oswaldo Moreno
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, United States
| | - Miryam Yusufov
- Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
- University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
| | | | | | | | - Brian Borsari
- San Franisco VA Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, United States
- The University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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178
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Blais M, Hébert M, Bergeron FA, Lapierre A. Dating Violence Experiences among Youths with Same-gender and Multi-gender Dating Partners: A Dyadic Concordance Type Approach. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP3981-NP4005. [PMID: 32907457 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520957688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Dating violence (DV) among youth is widespread and is now established as a significant public health problem. Yet, few studies have assessed DV experiences among youth with same-gender or multi-gender dating partners, and most failed to consider bidirectional DV. We analyzed self-reported dyadic concordance types (DCTs) among 295 youths (52% girls) who dated same-gender and multi-gender partners in the last 12 months using an adapted version of the Conflict in Adolescent Dating Relationships Inventory. Youths were classified in one of three DCTs: self-only (unidirectional perpetration of DV by the participant), partner-only (unidirectional victimization perpetrated by their partner) or both (bidirectional DV, where partners are both perpetrators and victims of DV). Overall prevalence rates of DV among sexual minority youths (SMYs) range from 11.5% for threats, to 51.2% for psychological violence, with physical and sexual violence reported by about one-fourth of participants. The both DCT was the most common pattern for psychological (59.6%) and physical (50.6%) DV across gender, while most threatening behaviors were reported as perpetrated by the partner only (47.1%). Girls were more likely to report sexual DV as partner-only perpetrated (63.6%), whereas boys reported higher rates of both (44.2%) and self-only (34.9%) perpetrated sexual violence. Because healthy intimate relationships can play a supportive and positive role in transitioning toward adulthood, it is crucial that DV prevention becomes more inclusive of sexual and gender diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Blais
- Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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179
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Addressing a critical gap: Integrating sexual aggression and coercion measures into substance administration research. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 217:173391. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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180
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Fornicola E, Peterson ZD. An Exploratory Study of Sexual Aggression Tactics as a Function of Perpetrator Gender and Victim Gender. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2022; 34:397-408. [PMID: 38596274 PMCID: PMC10903606 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2022.2053027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: This study sought to examine the association between perpetrator gender and victim gender and the use of sexually aggressive tactics (e.g., persistent enticement, verbal pressure, taking advantage of the inability to consent, and ignoring explicit non-consent). Methods: Participants were recruited from research panels to complete an online survey. They were asked to indicate which, if any, of 39 sexually aggressive tactics-representing four categories and nine subcategories-they had used to obtain sex, answering based on the gender with whom they most often have sex. Participants included 132 men who answered based on experiences with men (MSM), 131 men who answered based on experiences with women (MSW), 232 women who answered based on experiences with men (WSM), and 56 women who answered based on experiences with women (WSW). Results: MSM were more likely than all other groups to use enticement and more likely than WSM to engage in explicitly nonconsensual sex. WSM were more likely than MSW and WSW to take advantage of their partner's impaired ability to consent. There was no difference among groups in use of verbal pressure. Conclusions: Gendered sexual stereotypes may contribute to the types of tactics used by men and women against men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Errin Fornicola
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Zoë D. Peterson
- Counseling and Educational Psychology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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181
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Deogan C, Bergström J, Heimer G, Mannheimer L, Björkenstam C. Socioeconomic inequalities in sexual victimisation in a nationally representative sample of the Swedish population. Scand J Public Health 2022:14034948221079064. [PMID: 35319297 DOI: 10.1177/14034948221079064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Sexual victimisation is a key public health concern because of its physical, psychological and social consequences. Nationally representative studies exploring sexual victimisation and re-victimisation are still scarce. The aim of the current study was to explore associations of sexual victimisation with sociodemographic factors including sexual orientation in Sweden. METHODS We used Swedish data from a national population survey linked to nationwide registers. The sample consisted of 3349 individuals aged 30-44 years, (2021 women and 1328 men). With a latent class analysis we identified groups of individuals with distinctly different experiences of sexual victimisation. Multinomial logistic regression was used to explore how common characteristics could explain latent class membership classes. RESULTS Experiences of sexual victimisation were common: 48% of women and 13% of men had experienced sexual harassment, 47% of women and 12% of women sexual assault, 11% of women and 1% of men attempted intercourse and 8% of women and 1% of men rape. Among women four groups were identified who had distinctly different experiences of exposure to sexual victimisation such as low victimisation, sexually harassed and assaulted several times, highly sexually victimised with low re-victimisation and finally high victimisation. Both women and men who were highly sexually victimised had to a higher extent a non-heterosexual sexual identity. CONCLUSIONS Non-heterosexual orientation is a robust indicator of a high level of sexual victimisation as well as re-victimisation among both male and female adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Deogan
- The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Sweden.,Department of Global Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | | | - Gun Heimer
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Louise Mannheimer
- The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Sweden.,Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Björkenstam
- The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Sweden.,Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Sweden
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Ali SH, Mohaimin S, Dhar R, Dhar M, Rahman F, Roychowdhury L, Islam T, Lim S. Sexual violence among LGB+ South Asian Americans: Findings from a community survey. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264061. [PMID: 35202435 PMCID: PMC8870531 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and other sexual minority (LGB+) South Asian Americans represent a disproportionately underserved and often invisible community in the United States. While issues of sexual violence have been documented in the South Asian American community, little is known on its impact among LGB+ individuals. This study explores the experience of sexual violence, related attitudes, and mental health outcomes among LGB+ South Asian Americans. A community-informed online survey of 18–34-year-old South Asian Americans living near the New York State region, recruited from online social media platforms, was conducted. Study design, implementation, and evaluation occurred in partnership with an advisory board of South Asian young adult representatives; data was analyzed both descriptively and through multivariable logistic regression models. Of the 385 participants who reported their sexuality, LGB+ participants comprised 24.1% (n = 93) of the sample. LGB+ participants were more likely to have experienced rape multiple times (17.2% vs. 9.6%) in bivariate analyses, and higher odds of depression (AOR:3.47, 95%CI:1.61–8.17) in adjusted analyses. Overall, LGB+ South Asian Americans displayed a disproportionate burden of sexual violence and depression. Findings identify policy and research pathways to address sexual violence among LGB+ South Asians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahmir H. Ali
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Sadia Mohaimin
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Ritu Dhar
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Moitrayee Dhar
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Farzana Rahman
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Liza Roychowdhury
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Tanzeela Islam
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Sahnah Lim
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
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183
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Wong YJ, McDermott RC, Zounlome NOO, Klann EM, Peterson ZD. Self-Persuasion: An Experimental Evaluation of a Sexual Aggression Preventive Intervention for U.S. College Men. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:2037-2061. [PMID: 32627646 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520936369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Grounded in the self-persuasion paradigm (an indirect persuasion approach, which places people in situations that motivate them to change their behavior), this study evaluated a brief, online intervention to reduce sexual aggression perpetration and increase prosocial bystander behaviors among heterosexual male college students (N = 241) in the United States. Students were randomly assigned to three conditions: (a) a self-persuasion intervention, (b) a social norms control condition, and (c) a control condition focusing on sense of belongingness. The self-persuasion intervention integrated three social psychological theoretical perspectives on attitudinal and behavioral change-cognitive dissonance (e.g., creating a personalized video message for incoming male college freshmen to explain the importance of consent in sexual contact), self-affirmation (e.g., reflecting on one's core values and how they are congruent with sexual consent), and personal relevance (e.g., writing about personally relevant reasons to always seek consent when having sexual contact). Participants in the self-persuasion condition reported greater prosocial bystander behaviors (e.g., intervening in situations to prevent sexual aggression) 6 months after the intervention as compared with those in the other two conditions; however, there were no significant difference in the rate of self-reported sexual aggression perpetration across conditions. The positive effect of the self-persuasion intervention on prosocial bystander behaviors was mediated by reduced self-perceived likelihood to commit sexual aggression and moderated by in-group solidarity with other college students. That is, the intervention had the most positive effect on prosocial bystander behaviors among participants with a lower sense of in-group solidarity. These findings are discussed in light of the promise of self-persuasion for future sexual aggression prevention work.
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184
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Grandgenett HM, Steel AL, Brock RL, DiLillo D. Responding to Disclosure of Sexual Assault: The Potential Impact of Victimization History and Rape Myth Acceptance. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:2102-2125. [PMID: 32627642 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519898429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Victims of sexual assault often disclose their victimization experiences to friends and family members in the hope of gaining support. However, a number of factors may influence the manner in which these confidants respond to the disclosure (e.g., severity of the victim's assault). The purpose of this study was to examine the role of two unique factors-the disclosure recipient's sexual victimization history and endorsement of rape myths-in predicting responses to disclosure. Participants were 114 undergraduate students who indicated that a close friend or family member had previously disclosed a sexual victimization experience to them. The participants' responses to that disclosure, personal sexual victimization history, and rape myth attitudes were assessed via a self-report. Results indicated that a history of victimization predicted increased emotionally supportive responses to disclosure. Lower rape myth acceptance predicted increased supportive responses (i.e., emotionally supporting the victim and aiding the victim) and decreased unsupportive responses (i.e., treating the victim differently after the abuse, distracting the victim from the abuse, and blaming the victim). These results have implications for prevention efforts and those working with sexual assault survivors.
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185
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Gómez JM. Campus Sexual Violence, Gender, and Mental Health in Diverse Undergraduate/Graduate Students. JOURNAL OF AGGRESSION, MALTREATMENT & TRAUMA 2022; 31:981-995. [PMID: 36468083 PMCID: PMC9718436 DOI: 10.1080/10926771.2022.2043972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Campus sexual violence (CSV) is linked with poor mental health and alcohol use, with cisgender women and some people of Color at increased risk for victimization. Though undergraduates' experiences of CSV are typically studied, graduate/professional students may additionally be impacted by CSV. Campus climate surveys recruit random samples of the entire student population, thus increasing generalizability. The purpose of the study is to pilot the ARC3 campus climate survey to examine CSV, mental health, and alcohol use by gender and minority status in diverse undergraduates and graduate/professional students. Random samples of undergraduates (N = 775) and graduate/professional students (N = 525) completed a 30-min online survey. Compared to graduate/professional students and men, undergraduates and women experience more CSV. CSV was associated with alcohol use in undergraduates and poorer mental health in undergraduates and graduate/professional students. Universities' prevention and intervention strategies should include undergraduate and graduate/professional students, targeting sexism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M. Gómez
- Department of Psychology, Merrill Palmer Skillman Institute for Child & Family Development (MPSI), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Center for Institutional Courage, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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186
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Lipinski AJ, Beck JG. Sexual Functioning and Satisfaction Among College Survivors of Sexual Violence: Examining PTSD Symptoms and Sexual Schemas. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP2408-NP2427. [PMID: 32627653 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520935483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Decreased sexual functioning is prevalent among female survivors of sexual violence yet psychological factors that contribute to sexual impairments in this population are understudied. To extend research in this area, the current study examined two psychological factors as they relate to sexual functioning concerns among 148 female survivors of sexual violence: severity of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSSs) and sexual self-schemas. Four domains of sexual functioning were examined: sexual desire, sexual arousal, sexual satisfaction, and orgasm functioning. It was predicted that PTSSs would be associated with a more negative sexual schema, which in turn, would be associated with decreased sexual functioning across the four domains. Using path analysis, PTSSs were found to be indirectly associated with decreased sexual satisfaction (b = -.08, SEb = .04, p = .035), sexual arousal (b = -.01, SEb = .001, p = .02), and reduced orgasm functioning (b = -.01, SEb = .001, p = .002). Results also supported significant direct paths from PTSS to all sexual functioning variables. These results support that negative sexual self-schemas may be relevant to the co-association of PTSSs and reductions in sexual functioning and satisfaction.
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187
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Pedneault CI, Nunes KL, Hermann CA, White K. Evaluative Attitudes May Explain the Link Between Injunctive Norms and Sexual Aggression. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:1933-1959. [PMID: 32517562 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520926306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The current study examined the extent to which evaluative attitudes toward sexual aggression (i.e., positive or negative evaluative judgments about sexually aggressive behavior) mediate the association between injunctive norms (i.e., extent to which peers approve or disapprove of sexually aggressive behavior) and self-reported sexual aggression against women. Participants were 200 male undergraduate students. Approximately one in four males reported engaging in at least one sexually aggressive act since the age of 16. Participants with a history of sexual aggression also reported the highest likelihood of engaging in sexually aggressive behavior in the future. We tested two separate mediation models to examine the extent to which evaluative attitudes account for the link between injunctive norms and sexual aggression: one model with self-reported history of sexual aggression as the outcome and the other with likelihood of engaging in sexually aggressive behavior as the outcome. Results showed that more positive evaluative attitudes toward sexual aggression accounted for the association between injunctive norms and self-reported history of sexual aggression. Similarly, evaluative attitudes accounted for the link between injunctive norms and self-reported likelihood of engaging in sexually aggressive behavior in the future. Overall, these findings are consistent with theoretical and empirical explanations of sexual offending and general criminal behavior; however, this is the first study to explore the relationship between injunctive norms and evaluative attitudes in the context of explaining sexually aggressive behavior. If more rigorous research establishes a causal relationship between injunctive norms, evaluative attitudes, and sexually aggressive behavior, this would suggest that targeting these factors in prevention programs may reduce sexual aggression by male undergraduate students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chantal A Hermann
- Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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188
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Watters KN, Yalch MM. Relative effects of sexual assault and other traumatic life events on self-harm. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TRAUMA & DISSOCIATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejtd.2021.100244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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189
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Wilson LC, Newins AR. Attitudes Toward Men and Rejection of Rape Myths: The Impact on Survivor Rape Acknowledgment. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP1686-NP1703. [PMID: 32552244 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520933268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Because unacknowledged rape survivors (i.e., those who do not conceptualize their victimization as rape) are less likely to report the crime to police or seek formal services, a better understanding of factors that contribute to rape acknowledgment is a key step to improving access to care and assault reporting on college campuses. To contribute to this line of research, this study examined the indirect effect of sexist attitudes toward men on rape acknowledgment via rejection of rape myths among female rape survivors. The analyzed sample included 250 college female rape survivors (M age = 22.49 years, SD = 7.27) who completed measures of sexual assault history, sexist beliefs toward men, and rejection of rape myths. Among these women, 49.6% were classified as acknowledged rape survivors and 50.4% of the sample was classified as unacknowledged rape survivors. Indirect effects of sexist beliefs on rape acknowledgment via rape myth rejection were supported for four types of sexist beliefs, including resentment of paternalism, compensatory gender differentiation, maternalism, and complementary gender differentiation. Specifically, the findings supported that people with greater levels of these particular types of sexist beliefs toward men rejected rape myths less, and lower rejection of rape myths was associated with increased likelihood of unacknowledged rape. The indirect effects were not supported for the heterosexual hostility or heterosexual intimacy subscales of sexist beliefs. By identifying antecedents of rape acknowledgment, the findings from this study can be used to inform programming geared toward encouraging survivors to seek services, which ultimately improves survivor outcomes.
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190
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Butler LC, Fisher BS. Who Are the Mavens of Bystander Intervention? Implications for the Social Diffusion of Intervention Norms. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP2126-NP2146. [PMID: 32608341 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520934431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A recent randomized controlled trial reported that Green Dot (GD)-a bystander intervention training program that targets popular opinion leaders for intensive training-reduced school-level interpersonal violence perpetration and victimization. Expanding GD's targeted group members to include "mavens" of bystander intervention-those who spread bystander intervention norms to others by communicating with peers-may increase the effectiveness of such training. Self-report data collected from students at the 13 intervention high schools in Kentucky are analyzed to identify characteristics of those who engage in discussions with peers about preventing interpersonal violence. Findings show that students who engage in more frequent bystander behaviors are more likely to have such conversations with peers, but GD participants were no more likely than nonparticipants to discuss preventing interpersonal violence with peers.
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191
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Shi X, Zheng Y. Sexual Victimization in Adulthood and Associated Factors Among Men and Women: Cross-Sectional Evidence from Mainland China. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:1001-1017. [PMID: 35041094 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02257-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Limited empirical research addresses sexual victimization and related factors among the general adult population in China. To address this gap, we explored the association between sexual victimization in adulthood and associated factors (unwanted sexual experiences [USE] before age 18, binge drinking prior to sex, hooking up, violent pornography use, awareness and perceived behavioral control of consent, and sexual refusal assertiveness) among a convenience Chinese sample. A cross-sectional study was performed in September 2020 among 898 screened men and women from 29 provinces in mainland China. Overall, 52.5% of men and 57.9% of women experienced sexual victimization at least once in adulthood. Men and women differed in the severity of sexual victimization in adulthood, with the mean severity scores of women being significantly higher than those of men. Hierarchical ordinal logistic regression revealed that, after considering control variables, correlates of severity of sexual victimization in adulthood included gender (OR 3.17, 95% CI 2.30-4.40), severity of USE before age 18 (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.92-2.73), binge drinking prior to sex (OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.83-3.49), hook-up history (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.49-3.39), violent pornography use (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04-1.09), lack of perceived behavioral control of communicating consent (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.07), and sexual refusal assertiveness (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.89-0.95). These findings indicate that early adverse sexual experiences, potential risky sexual behaviors, violent pornography use, and beliefs about consent and refusal may play an important role in predicting sexual victimization among Chinese adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Shi
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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192
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Fansher AK, Zedaker SB. The Relationship Between Rape Myth Acceptance and Sexual Behaviors. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP903-NP924. [PMID: 32401140 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520916831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
An extensive amount of research has been devoted to understanding rape myths, especially in the context of sexual attitudes. Few studies have examined sexual actions as a correlate of rape myth acceptance (RMA). As such, this study utilizes the Updated Illinois Rape Myth Acceptance Scale (IRMA) and its four distinct subscales to examine adherence to rape myths and an individual's view of sex and sexuality in a sample of 1,310 college students. The IRMA was included in its entirety and separated into its four subscales: "She asked for it," "He didn't mean to," "It wasn't really rape," and "She lied." Results indicated that the most impactful variables for all four subscales were adversarial heterosexual beliefs, stereotypical gender beliefs, and being male. The main implications of this study pertain to implementation of programming. Intervention programming should focus on younger males due to their increased adherence to certain rape myths. Furthermore, programs that address not only rape myths but also other traditional and negative belief systems should be employed. Results of this study lend support to the supposition that it is not necessarily individual characteristics that have a large effect on RMA but is instead a strong adherence to traditional belief systems.
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193
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Koss MP, Swartout KM, Lopez EC, Lamade RV, Anderson EJ, Brennan CL, Prentky RA. The Scope of Rape Victimization and Perpetration Among National Samples of College Students Across 30 years. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP25-NP47. [PMID: 34911373 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211050103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Research Questions: Rape prevention practice and policy have roots in data from 1985. This study uses 2015 national data to project recent prevalence, assesses whether rates now differ from those of 30 years ago, and disaggregates 2015 prevalence into rape of alcohol incapacitated victims, rapes combining both alcohol and physical tactics, and violent rape. Methods: Cross-sectional analyses were conducted comparing two national samples. The first was collected in 1984-85 (Koss, Gidycz, & Wisniewski, 1987); the second was collected 30 years later in 2014-2015. Both surveys used in-person administration and measurement by the most current version at the time of the Sexual Experiences Survey (SES). Prevalence rates were compared using Bayesian binomial tests. Results: In 2015, 33.4% (1 in 3) of women reported experiencing rape or attempted rape and 12.7% of men reported perpetration (1 in 8). Using Jeffreys' label for effect size of the Bayes binomial (1961), both results are "decisively" greater than expected given the 1985 benchmarks of 27.9% for victimization and 7.7% for perpetration. Victimization when incapacitated characterized approximately 75% of incidents in 2015 up from 50% in 1985. Cautions apply as cross-sectional data does not establish causality and the recent data set involved the revised SES. Conclusions: Across 30 years, neither containment nor reduction of rape was demonstrated and the increasingly prominent association with alcohol was apparent. Among the men who disclosed raping, 9 of 10 incidents were alcohol-involved. Prevention focus might profitably be directed to constraining alcohol environments and policies that facilitate rape of incapacitated persons and on misconduct responses that are proportional to the harm caused to rape victims, thereby raising the perceived risks of perpetration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary P Koss
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, 48710Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Elise C Lopez
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, 48710Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Raina V Lamade
- 14709University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, Dartmouth, MA, USA
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194
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Leone RM, Haikalis M, Parrott DJ, Tharp AT. A laboratory study of the effects of men's acute alcohol intoxication, perceptions of women's intoxication, and masculine gender role stress on the perpetration of sexual aggression. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2022; 46:166-176. [PMID: 34825391 PMCID: PMC8799513 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although research has established an association between alcohol use and sexual assault, few studies have examined how characteristics of the perpetrator may influence sexual aggression depending upon whether alcohol is consumed by the perpetrator and/or the victim. This laboratory-based investigation was designed to disentangle the effects of individual differences in masculine gender role stress (MGRS) and the perpetration of sexual aggression as a function of (1) men's acute alcohol intoxication and (2) whether a woman was consuming alcohol or not. METHOD A community sample of 156 men participated in two laboratory sessions, during which they completed a self-report measure of MGRS (Session 1) and a modified version of the sexual imposition paradigm after consuming an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage (Session 2). In this paradigm, participants and a male friend were told that an ostensible female participant had consumed or not consumed alcohol. They were also told that she did not wish to view sexual content. Participants were then provided the opportunity to make the female confederate view a sexually or non-sexually explicit film. Sexual aggression was operationalized by selection of the sexually explicit film. RESULTS A hierarchical logistic regression showed that men higher in MGRS who were intoxicated were (1) more likely than sober men to select the sexually explicit film when the woman was intoxicated and (2) less likely than sober men to select the sexually explicit film when the woman was sober. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the perpetration of sexual aggression is most likely among men with higher MGRS when there is concordance in drinking (i.e., when either the man and woman are both drinking or are both not drinking).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruschelle M. Leone
- Department of Health Policy and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University,Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development, School of Public Health, Georgia State University
| | - Michelle Haikalis
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University
| | | | - Andra Teten Tharp
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine
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195
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Théorêt V, Lapierre A, Blais M, Hébert M. Can Emotion Dysregulation Explain the Association Between Attachment Insecurities and Teen Dating Violence Perpetration? JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:743-763. [PMID: 32306831 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520915547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Attachment theory provides important insight regarding the etiology of teen dating violence perpetration (TDV-P). Attachment insecurities have been associated with TDV-P, but the mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. Furthermore, as of now, studies have failed to explore whether the relation between attachment insecurities and TDV-P varied according to its forms (i.e., psychological, physical or sexual) or to the perpetrator's gender. This study aimed to investigate if emotion dysregulation mediates the association between attachment insecurities and different forms of TDV-P among girls and boys. Adolescents (Mage = 16 years; n = 3,214; 60% girls) were recruited from a one-stage stratified cluster sample of 34 high schools in Quebec, Canada. Path analyses with probit regression models were conducted separately for girls and boys. Attachment anxiety and avoidance were associated with more emotion dysregulation. Emotion dysregulation was, in turn, associated with higher probabilities of physical TDV-P in girls and psychological TDV-P in girls and boys. Surprisingly, emotion dysregulation was not associated with sexual TDV-P. Attachment anxiety remained directly related to higher probabilities of perpetrating all forms of TDV. These findings support the hypotheses set forth by attachment theory and highlight the utility of this theory to understand and potentially prevent TDV-P. Practitioners should more specifically address adolescents' attachment anxiety, as it seems more related to TDV-P. Finally, this study underscores the necessity of considering gender and specific forms of TDV-P to understand the association between attachment insecurities, emotion dysregulation, and TDV-P.
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196
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Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Prevention Among Youth: A Community Guide Systematic Review. Am J Prev Med 2022; 62:e45-e55. [PMID: 34772564 PMCID: PMC9125790 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2021.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intimate partner violence and sexual violence are widespread and often occur early in life. This systematic review examines the effectiveness of interventions for primary prevention of intimate partner violence and sexual violence among youth. METHODS Studies were identified from 2 previous systematic reviews and an updated search (January 2012-June 2016). Included studies were implemented among youth, conducted in high-income countries, and aimed to prevent or reduce the perpetration of intimate partner violence or sexual violence. In 2016-2017, Guide to Community Preventive Services (Community Guide) methods were used to assess effectiveness as determined by perpetration, victimization, or bystander action. When heterogeneity of outcomes prevented usual Community Guide methods, the team systematically applied criteria for favorability (statistically significant at p<0.05 or approaching significance at p<0.10) and consistency (75% of results in the same direction). RESULTS A total of 28 studies (32 arms) met inclusion and quality of execution criteria. Interventions used combinations of teaching healthy relationship skills, promoting social norms to protect against violence, or creating protective environments. Overall, 18 of 24 study arms reported favorable results on the basis of the direction of effect for decreasing perpetration; however, favorability for bystander action diminished with longer follow-up. Interventions did not demonstrate consistent results for decreasing victimization. A bridge search conducted during Fall 2020 confirmed these results. DISCUSSION Interventions for the primary prevention of intimate partner violence and sexual violence are effective in reducing perpetration. Increasing bystander action may require additional follow-up as effectiveness diminishes over time. Findings may inform researchers, school personnel, public health, and other decision makers about effective strategies to prevent intimate partner violence and sexual violence among youth.
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197
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Silver KE, Anderson RE, Brouwer AM. Emotional Responses to a Sexual Assault Threat: A Qualitative Analysis Among Women With Histories of Sexual Victimization. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:9-32. [PMID: 32102627 PMCID: PMC8431831 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520908019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Sexual assaults against women are a leading threat to human rights and public health in the United States. Considering the high rates of sexual revictimization among women and the limited understanding of the mechanisms which fuel this phenomenon, the goal of the present study was to investigate the role of emotion in coping with a hypothetical threat of sexual assault for previously sexually victimized college women. A total of 114 college women with a history of sexual victimization listened to an audio-recording describing a sexual assault scenario and then described how they felt. A qualitative analysis paradigm was used to capture participants' responses in an open-ended, real-time, experiential manner. Data were analyzed using Consensual Qualitative Research-Modified methodology. Four main themes emerged (Negative Reactions, Indifferent Evaluations, Active Responses, and Cognitive Appraisal of the Situation), along with various subcategories, demonstrating the variability of women's responses to a sexual assault threat. Many women experienced uncomfortable or distressing emotional reactions to the vignette, primarily through discomfort, but also through anger, anxiety, and being upset. Few women reported experiencing fear, and a small number reported experiencing self-blame. The low endorsement of fear and anger in our high-risk sample indicates emotional dysregulation as a potential mechanism of repeated sexual victimization and a promising target for clinical intervention. Overall, results may inform sexual assault risk reduction efforts and the empowerment of women who have experienced sexual victimization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - RaeAnn E. Anderson
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
- University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND
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198
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Krahé B, Tomaszewska P, Schuster I. Links of Perceived Pornography Realism with Sexual Aggression via Sexual Scripts, Sexual Behavior, and Acceptance of Sexual Coercion: A Study with German University Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:63. [PMID: 35010321 PMCID: PMC8751040 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to pornographic material has been linked to sexual aggression perpetration and victimization in a large body of research. Based on social learning theory and 3A theory of script learning, this study contributes to this research by testing the hypothesis that the more realistic pornography is perceived to be by young adults, the more likely they are to experience and engage in sexual aggression. Two underlying pathways were proposed: one path via scripts and patterns of sexual behavior regarding consensual sexual interactions that contain established risk factors for sexual aggression victimization and perpetration, and a second path via the acceptance of sexual coercion. In a cross-sectional study, 1181 university students in Germany (762 female; 419 male) completed measures of pornography use and perception, risky sexual scripts and sexual behavior, and acceptance of sexual coercion. As predicted, pornography realism was a positive predictor of risky sexual scripts, risky sexual behavior, and acceptance of sexual coercion. Indirect links with sexual aggression victimization and perpetration were found via both pathways. No gender differences in the associations were found. The implications for media literacy interventions addressing the realism of pornography are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Krahé
- Department of Psychology, University of Potsdam, 14476 Potsdam, Germany;
| | | | - Isabell Schuster
- Department of Education and Psychology, Free University of Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany;
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199
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Bedera N, Nordmeyer K. An Inherently Masculine Practice: Understanding the Sexual Victimization of Queer Women. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:11188-11211. [PMID: 31916490 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519898439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Sexual violence is a widespread social issue, and sexual victimization is especially prevalent among queer-identified women. Still, there is little research on queer women's experiences of sexual violence or explanations for the high rate of victimization. This study uses data from 40 open-ended interviews to investigate queer women's experiences with sexual violence and those who perpetrate it. Respondents answered questions about the characteristics of their sexual assaults and perpetrators, as well as connections the survivors perceive between their sexual assaults and sexual identities. Findings indicate that the perpetrators of such sexual assaults invoke an expression of masculinity, regardless of the perpetrator's gender identity at the time of violence. To understand the nuanced role of masculinity in queer assailant's assaults, we develop the concept of "righteous masculinity," which refers to a traditional (and, in this case, violent) masculinity invoked by marginalized people in an attempt to reclaim power. We find that sexual violence against queer women is an especially powerful way to enact masculinity through drawing upon misogyny and homophobia simultaneously, providing an explanation for the high rates of sexual victimization among queer women. We argue that centering masculinity can help scholars and activists better challenge the sexual victimization of queer women and deepen understanding of the links between gender-based violence and masculinity.
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200
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Holland KJ, Cipriano AE, Goodman-Williams R, Diede AS. Examining Support for University-to-Police Reporting Policies for Sexual Assault: The Role of Survivors' Consent. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 68:440-454. [PMID: 34275159 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In several states, bills have been introduced that require universities to report sexual assaults to law enforcement. Opponents argue that such policies can compel survivors to disclose against their will, stripping survivors of autonomy and harming campus communities. We used a mixed method approach to examine people's support for reporting policies that do and do not consider survivor consent: compelled police disclosure (requires a report regardless of victim consent) and consented police disclosure (requires a report if the victim consents). We examined individual characteristics and attitudes associated with support for these approaches (i.e., had experienced sexual assault, trust in police). Participants (1,045 adults in the United States) were randomly assigned to read one of three policy statements, and we collected quantitative and qualitative survey data. Participants were less supportive of compelled police disclosure than consented police disclosure. People who supported compelled disclosure frequently focused on the crime and potential social benefits, were more likely to be non-victims, and held greater trust in the police. People who supported consented disclosure focused on the victim's needs, were more likely to be survivors, and held less trust in the police. Survivor consent should be considered in the discussion of university-to-police reporting policies for sexual assault.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J Holland
- Department of Psychology and Women's & Gender Studies Program, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | | | | | - Alex S Diede
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
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