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Li J, Hust SJT, Mei X. Sexual Consent, Alcohol Use, and Greek Membership: Testing Measurement Invariance and Group Mean Differences of Two Sexual Consent Measures. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38323863 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2024.2308047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Research into sexual consent among college students often focuses on gender and Greek community involvement differences. However, few studies have validated sexual consent measures used for such comparisons. The present study applied a structural equation modeling (SEM) framework to assess the psychometric properties and measurement invariances of two prevalent sexual consent measures across Greek membership and gender groups - the Sexual Consent-Related Behavior Intentions Scale and the Alcohol and Sexual Consent Scale. After establishing measurement invariance, the latent group means were tested between genders and Greek community status. The results with 501 college men (318 fraternity members and 183 non-fraternity members) and 1506 college women (1187 sorority women and 319 nonsorority women) suggested that both scales achieved scalar invariance, permitting confident usage for comparisons across Greek memberships and genders. The latent mean analyses revealed significant differences in intentions to negotiate sexual consent and beliefs regarding alcohol-involved sexual assault among the different groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Li
- Murrow College of Communication, Washington State University
| | - Stacey J T Hust
- Murrow College of Communication, Washington State University
| | - Xiaohan Mei
- School of Criminal Justice and Criminalistics, California State University
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2
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Jaffe N, Jones MC, Angelone DJ. Development, feasibility, and acceptability of SPoRT: a dating violence and sexual risk prevention intervention for college student-athletes. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:183. [PMID: 37936248 PMCID: PMC10629049 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01413-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Student-athletes are one subgroup of college students in the USA at risk for dating violence and sexual risk behaviors. Despite this, research on student-athletes' dating behaviors is limited; existing research pertains primarily to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletes and focuses on male student-athletes as perpetrators of dating and sexual violence. While some existing programs aim to reduce dating violence and promote healthy relationships, these programs are education based, and not tailored to the specific strengths and challenges of student-athletes. We therefore designed Supporting Prevention in Relationships for Teams (SPoRT), a novel, four-session prevention intervention for Division III student-athletes of all genders to reduce dating violence and sexual risk behavior by targeting knowledge and skills identified in pilot research, incorporating psychoeducation with techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, bystander intervention, and normative feedback. METHODS This study represents stage 1 of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Stage Model for Behavioral Intervention Development, evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of SPoRT. We describe the development, content, and proposed delivery methods for SPoRT and evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the program using a mixed-methods approach. Thirty college student-athletes (12 men, 18 women) completed questionnaires and participated in focus groups to provide feedback on the program's length, timing, group size and dynamics, content, and suggestions for making the SPoRT prevention intervention more feasible and acceptable. RESULTS Our recruitment procedures were successful, and participants rated the program as feasible in terms of delivery methods and logistics. Participants liked that SPoRT was developed based on pilot data collected from student-athletes, brief, and skills based and tailored to athletic team needs. SPoRT was perceived as appropriate and relevant to student-athlete needs in terms of dating violence and sexual risk prevention knowledge and skills. Most participants (63%) rated the program as "excellent" and said they would recommend it to others. CONCLUSIONS We found SPoRT to be both feasible and acceptable in terms of content and delivery. Suggested modifications will be incorporated into the SPoRT healthy relationships prevention intervention to be tested in an NIH Stage 1 efficacy trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Jaffe
- The Center for Psychology, 12499 Brantley Commons Ct #101, Fort Myers, FL, 33907, USA
| | - Meredith C Jones
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Road, Glassboro, NJ, 08028, USA.
| | - D J Angelone
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Road, Glassboro, NJ, 08028, USA
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Spencer CM, Rivas-Koehl M, Astle S, Toews ML, Anders KM, McAllister P. Risk Markers for Male Perpetration of Sexual Assault on College Campuses: A Meta-Analysis. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:2486-2497. [PMID: 35549772 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221097437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sexual assault (SA) on college campuses remains a prominent public health issue. This meta-analysis focuses on identifying all potential risk markers for college male SA perpetration. Using standard search procedures, a total of 25 studies yielding 89 unique effect sizes were included in the study. Significant risk markers were related to hegemonic masculinity (e.g., peer approval of SA, rape myth acceptance, sexist beliefs, hostility towards women), other forms of dating violence perpetration (e.g., physical and psychological dating violence perpetration), and the college party culture (e.g., binge drinking, alcohol and substance use, frequency of hook-ups). Psychological dating violence victimization, athletic team membership, race/ethnicity, relationship status, and religiosity were not significant risk markers for SA perpetration. Findings support potential benefits of SA prevention efforts prioritizing peer education/student leaders modeling SA disapproval, challenging hegemonic masculinity, healthy relationship and sexual education, as well as alcohol and substance use awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea M Spencer
- Couple and Family Therapy, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Matthew Rivas-Koehl
- Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Shelby Astle
- Applied Family Science, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Michelle L Toews
- Applied Family Science, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Kristin M Anders
- Applied Family Science, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Paige McAllister
- Couple and Family Therapy, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
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O'Connor J. Profiles of Men's Rape Myth Beliefs and the Association With Rape Proclivity. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:6366-6388. [PMID: 36314573 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221130395] [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: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The two constructs of rape myth acceptance (RMA) and rape proclivity are associated with sexual violence (SV) perpetration. Further understanding these constructs can help improve prevention efforts aimed at reducing SV perpetration. Latent profile analysis was conducted to examine typologies of RMA among 474 incoming college men and found that male college students can be categorized into four profiles. Some groups endorsed lower or mid-levels of rape myths (RMs) and others endorsed higher levels of some or all RMs, indicating the heterogeneity of RM beliefs. And within each subgroup of college men's RMA, intention to join an all-male sports team and/or a fraternity (two risk factors) and bystander attitudes (a protective factor) were examined as covariates in the model. Bystander attitudes appear to act as a protective factor as they are higher among profiles of men with lower RMA. Furthermore, this study examined the four subgroups (latent profiles) of college men based on their RMA to examine whether membership within each subgroup/profile is differentially associated with rape proclivity. The findings indicate that subgroups of men with high levels of RMA have higher mean rape proclivity scores compared to the subgroup of men with the lowest level of RMA. Implications for prevention programming tailored for high-risk groups of men, based on their RMA beliefs, as well as possible future research within this area are discussed.
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5
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Ray TN, Parkhill MR. Components of Hostile Masculinity and Their Associations With Male-Perpetrated Sexual Aggression Toward Women: A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:355-368. [PMID: 34227432 DOI: 10.1177/15248380211030224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Hostile masculinity and its components (i.e., sexual dominance, hostility toward women, adversarial sexual beliefs, rape myth acceptance, and acceptance of interpersonal violence) have received considerable research attention as predictors of male-perpetrated sexual aggression toward women. The current systematic review sought to synthesize and organize the extant literature. Studies were included in the systematic review if they were published in a peer-reviewed journal between the years 1990 and 2020, contained a male sample within the United States, analyzed quantitative data, and examined at least one component of hostile masculinity and its association with sexual aggression. Literature searches were conducted in three academic databases, and additional records were identified through references sections from known hostile masculinity research. A total of 95 articles met inclusion criteria and were integrated into the overview of results. The reviewed literature provided broad support for the association between hostile masculinity and sexual aggression, including evidence for the theoretical framework posited by the confluence model of sexual aggression. Prevention efforts are likely to find success by modifying hostile masculine characteristics among men, particularly within problematic environmental contexts. However, the review also highlighted the need for a uniform conceptualization and operational definition of hostile masculinity. Additionally, empirical work with diverse samples is necessary to determine the scope of generalizability and potential subcultural distinctions. Future research that addresses these limitations will contribute to the understanding and prevention of sexual aggression beyond what is provided by the extant literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis N Ray
- Department of Psychology, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA
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6
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Vazsonyi AT, Karaman NG, Albayrak H, Liu D. Through Myths, Attitudes, or Norms? The Relationship Between Low Self-Control and Sexual Aggression. Violence Against Women 2022:10778012221132306. [PMID: 36267000 DOI: 10.1177/10778012221132306] [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: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study tested the direct and indirect effects of low self-control on sexual aggression and violence, mediated through rape myth acceptance, date rape attitudes, and promiscuous sexual norms among college-aged men. Self-report data were collected from 369 male college students attending a large university in the southeastern United States. The final model with all three mediators indicated significant mediated effects through date rape attitudes as well as promiscuous sexual norms on sexual aggression; it explained 16% (Cox & Snell) and 23% (Nagelkerke) of the variance. Study findings support the importance of low self-control on sexual aggression among male college students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hüsna Albayrak
- 52995TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Dan Liu
- 4530University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Hoxmeier JC, Zapp D. History of Sexual Assault Perpetration and Violence-Related Prosocial Tendencies Among Men by Fraternity Affiliation Status. Violence Against Women 2021; 28:1965-1986. [PMID: 34709095 DOI: 10.1177/10778012211037381] [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: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine self-reported sexual assault perpetration history, as well as violence prevention-related prosocial tendencies, among fraternity men, unaffiliated men with membership intentions, and unaffiliated men without membership intentions with data from 262,634 college men in the United States. Results indicate that fraternity status was related to sexual assault perpetration, both prior to and while at their current institution of higher education; both perpetration history and fraternity status significantly related to diminished violence prevention-related prosocial tendencies. The findings have important implications for future research and practice to reduce the incidents of sexual assault on college campuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill C Hoxmeier
- Department of Health Sciences, 3197Central Washington University, USA
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Marshall E, Bouffard JA, Miller H. Pornography Use and Sexual Coercion: Examining the Mediation Effect of Sexual Arousal. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2021; 33:552-578. [PMID: 32532176 DOI: 10.1177/1079063220931823] [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: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The increased accessibility and use of pornography in Western society highlights the emergent need to understand the relationship between its use and sexual coercion. Decades of research have demonstrated a consistent relationship between pornography use and engaging in sexually aggressive behavior, although what drives this relationship remains largely unexplained. Researchers have recently presented potential explanations for these relationships, such as the use of violent pornography types, the development of aberrant sexual scripts, and the frequency of pornography use. This study seeks to contribute to the explanation by examining the potential mediating effects of sexual arousal on the relationship between pornography use frequency and willingness to engage in verbal and illegal sexual coercive behaviors by examining a sample of male and female college adults. This population reports some of the highest rates of pornography use. The sample of 745 college students were exposed to either an exotic video presentation or a criminal justice lecture, and provided a dating scenario and sexual arousal assessments. Results indicated those young adults that consume pornography more frequently were more likely to experience higher levels of sexual arousal to the erotic video than those who reported little or no use. However, after controlling for several variables significantly related to sexual coercion, arousal did not mediate willingness to engage in verbal or illegal sexual coercive behaviors. Other significant results and implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Holly Miller
- Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX, USA
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Treat TA, Corbin WR, Papova A, Richner K, Craney R, Fromme K. Selection and socialization accounts of the relation between fraternity membership and sexual aggression. PSYCHOLOGY OF ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS 2021; 35:337-350. [PMID: 33764091 PMCID: PMC8084907 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current project aims to enhance our understanding of the well-established relation between fraternity membership and sexual aggression on college campuses. Most prior research has been cross-sectional and unable to distinguish selection and socialization accounts of the relation, and only one prior longitudinal study has simultaneously examined selection and socialization effects. METHOD Fraternity membership, sexual aggression, binge drinking, sociosexual attitudes and behaviors, and perceived peer sexual aggression were assessed for 772 male participants (n = 116 fraternity members) in a longitudinal survey study from the summer prior to college through Year 2 of college. RESULTS Longitudinal path analyses revealed three key findings. First, fraternity membership was prospectively correlated with sexual aggression in Years 1 and 2 of college (socialization effect), controlling for selection effects, when the two prospective paths were constrained to be equivalent. Second, more frequent binge drinking and sociosexual attitudes prior to college prospectively correlated with an increased likelihood of joining a fraternity (selection effect), and both selection variables indirectly correlated with future sexual aggression via fraternity membership. Third, fraternity membership was associated with increased binge drinking and perceived peer sexual aggression (socialization effects). CONCLUSIONS These findings identify critical targets for the prevention of sexually aggressive behavior that are linked to fraternity membership: Binge drinking and sociosexual attitudes. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
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Marshall EA, Miller HA, Bouffard JA. Bridging the Theoretical Gap: Using Sexual Script Theory to Explain the Relationship Between Pornography Use and Sexual Coercion. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP5215-NP5238. [PMID: 30193544 DOI: 10.1177/0886260518795170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Research has consistently shown a relationship between pornography use and sexually coercive behaviors, but this inquiry has yet to fully examine the theoretical mechanisms through which this relationship works. The current study will use a theory that has gained support and attention as a way to understand the relationship pornography use has with general sexual behaviors, but has not been widely used to explain its relationship with sexually coercive behaviors: the sexual script theory. In this theory, scripts are attitudes and ideas about what behavior is acceptable, desirable, and pleasurable, which exist at the societal, personal, and interpersonal levels. Using items that assess all three levels of sexual scripts, a path analysis was used to examine whether sexual scripts mediate the relationship between pornography use and sexual coercion likelihood in a sample of 463 college males. Results of the study provide further support for the theory as a way to explain the relationship between pornography use and sexual behavior, and, in particular, sexually coercive behavior. Findings from the analysis also indicate that the various levels of scripts interact with each other and work together to influence likelihood of sexual coercion, providing further insight into how sexual scripts are manifested in behavior. Finally, the results suggest that pornography use is a multidimensional construct comprised of variables extending beyond frequency of use, such as number of modalities used to view pornography. Future research should continue this line of inquiry, expanding on the operationalization of sexual scripts and pornography use, to strengthen these findings and better illuminate the theoretical understanding of the relationship between pornography use and sexual coercion.
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11
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Seabrook RC. Examining attitudes towards sexual violence and IPV prevention activities among fraternity members with official and unofficial houses. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2021; 69:390-395. [PMID: 31662047 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2019.1679153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study explored differences in attitudes about sexual violence, knowledge of intimate partner violence (IPV) prevention resources, and participation in IPV prevention activities among young men based on their fraternity membership and house status (ie, official house versus unofficial house versus no house). Participants: 1,457 undergraduate men completed surveys in the 2017-2018 academic year. Fraternity members indicated whether their fraternity had an official, unofficial, or no house. Methods: The survey included measures of attitudes towards sexual violence, knowledge of IPV resources, and participation in IPV prevention activities. Results: Fraternity members with unofficial houses were more accepting of sexual violence than nonmembers, whereas fraternity members with official houses were exposed to more IPV prevention messages than nonmembers. Conclusions: Results highlight the importance of considering fraternity house status as a risk factor for sexual violence. Unofficial houses that are not regulated by the university may be particularly problematic for IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita C Seabrook
- Center on Violence against Women and Children, School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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12
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Marshall EA, Miller HA, Bouffard JA. Crossing the Threshold From Porn Use to Porn Problem: Frequency and Modality of Porn Use as Predictors of Sexually Coercive Behaviors. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:1472-1497. [PMID: 29294993 DOI: 10.1177/0886260517743549] [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: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
According to recent statistics, as many as one in five female college students are victims of sexual assault during their college career. To combat what has been called the "Campus Rape Crisis," researchers have attempted to understand what variables are associated with sexually coercive behaviors in college males. Although investigators have found support for the relationship between pornography consumption and sexually coercive behavior, researchers typically operationalize pornography use in terms of frequency of use. Furthermore, frequency of use has been assessed vaguely and inconsistently. The current study offered a more concrete assessment of frequency of use and an additional variable not yet included for pornography use: number of modalities. Beyond examining the relationship between pornography use and sexual coercion likelihood, the current study was the first to use pornography variables in a threshold analysis to test whether there is a cut point that is predictive of sexual coercion likelihood. Analyses were conducted with a sample of 463 college males. Results indicated that both pornography use variables were significantly related to a higher likelihood of sexually coercive behaviors. When both frequency of use and number of modalities were included in the model, modalities were significant and frequency was not. In addition, significant thresholds for both pornography variables that predicted sexual coercion likelihood were identified. These results imply that factors other than frequency of use, such as number of modalities, may be more important for the prediction of sexual coercive behaviors. Furthermore, threshold analyses revealed the most significant increase in risk occurred between one modality and two, indicating that it is not pornography use in general that is related to sexual coercion likelihood, but rather, specific aspects of pornography use.
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Seabrook RC, McMahon S, O'Connor J. A longitudinal study of interest and membership in a fraternity, rape myth acceptance, and proclivity to perpetrate sexual assault. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2018; 66:510-518. [PMID: 29447586 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2018.1440584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored the relation between interest and membership in a fraternity and acceptance of sexual violence (eg, rape myth acceptance, proclivity to perpetrate sexual aggression) among first year college men. PARTICIPANTS A total of 315 men were surveyed before their first year of college (June-August 2010) and again at 4 time points over the next year. METHODS Participants responded to measures of rape myth acceptance and proclivity to perpetrate sexual aggression. RESULTS Interested members scored higher on proclivity to perpetrate sexual aggression and some rape myths than noninterested nonmembers; interested nonmembers scored in between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS Results highlight the importance of considering both fraternity membership and interest in joining a fraternity, as well as examining individual rape myths, in studies of fraternity membership and sexual violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita C Seabrook
- a Center on Violence Against Women, Rutgers University , New Brunswick , New Jersey , USA
| | - Sarah McMahon
- a Center on Violence Against Women, Rutgers University , New Brunswick , New Jersey , USA
| | - Julia O'Connor
- a Center on Violence Against Women, Rutgers University , New Brunswick , New Jersey , USA
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Davis KC, Neilson EC, Wegner R, Danube CL. The Intersection of Men's Sexual Violence Perpetration and Sexual Risk Behavior: A Literature Review. AGGRESSION AND VIOLENT BEHAVIOR 2018; 40:83-90. [PMID: 30713462 PMCID: PMC6350826 DOI: 10.1016/j.avb.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
According to the Confluence Model of Sexual Violence, men with a strong impersonal sex orientation (i.e., greater engagement in sexual activities with more casual sexual partners) are at increased risk of perpetrating sexual violence. Research from a variety of countries and samples has supported this proposition, finding that men who perpetrate sexual violence are also more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior. The present article reviews this literature, synthesizing research findings from both psychology and public health domains utilizing both domestic and international samples. In particular, this review focuses on the associations between men's perpetration of sexual violence and their sexual partners, condom use, and sexually transmitted infection status, as well as provides recommendations for future research directions and prevention and intervention programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Cue Davis
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University
| | | | - Rhiana Wegner
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts - Boston
| | - Cinnamon L. Danube
- Institutional Research and Decision Support, University of California, Merced
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15
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Hagen T, Thompson MP, Williams J. Religiosity Reduces Sexual Aggression and Coercion in a Longitudinal Cohort of College Men: Mediating Roles of Peer Norms, Promiscuity, and Pornography. JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF RELIGION 2018; 57:95-108. [PMID: 30349145 PMCID: PMC6195355 DOI: 10.1111/jssr.12496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Extensive literature suggests that religiosity is a protective factor in reducing a number of deviant behaviors, including sexual aggression. Whereas previous research focused on the role of risky alcohol consumption in mediating the relationship between religiosity and sexual aggression, this study explores the hypothesized meditational paths from religiosity to sexual aggression and technology-based coercive behavior through peer norms, pornography consumption, and promiscuity. Findings from a four-year longitudinal study of male college students suggest that peer norms and promiscuity mediate the relationship between religiosity and both outcome measures, while pornography consumption mediates the relationship between religiosity and technology-based coercive behavior. These findings may inform ongoing practice and future research into possible mechanisms by which problematic sexual behaviors may be influenced.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martie P Thompson
- Department of Youth, Family, and Community Studies, Clemson University
| | - Janelle Williams
- Department of Youth, Family, and Community Studies, Clemson University
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Mellins CA, Walsh K, Sarvet AL, Wall M, Gilbert L, Santelli JS, Thompson M, Wilson PA, Khan S, Benson S, Bah K, Kaufman KA, Reardon L, Hirsch JS. Sexual assault incidents among college undergraduates: Prevalence and factors associated with risk. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186471. [PMID: 29117226 PMCID: PMC5695602 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual assault on college campuses is a public health issue. However varying research methodologies (e.g., different sexual assault definitions, measures, assessment timeframes) and low response rates hamper efforts to define the scope of the problem. To illuminate the complexity of campus sexual assault, we collected survey data from a large population-based random sample of undergraduate students from Columbia University and Barnard College in New York City, using evidence based methods to maximize response rates and sample representativeness, and behaviorally specific measures of sexual assault to accurately capture victimization rates. This paper focuses on student experiences of different types of sexual assault victimization, as well as sociodemographic, social, and risk environment correlates. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used to estimate prevalences and test associations. Since college entry, 22% of students reported experiencing at least one incident of sexual assault (defined as sexualized touching, attempted penetration [oral, anal, vaginal, other], or completed penetration). Women and gender nonconforming students reported the highest rates (28% and 38%, respectively), although men also reported sexual assault (12.5%). Across types of assault and gender groups, incapacitation due to alcohol and drug use and/or other factors was the perpetration method reported most frequently (> 50%); physical force (particularly for completed penetration in women) and verbal coercion were also commonly reported. Factors associated with increased risk for sexual assault included non-heterosexual identity, difficulty paying for basic necessities, fraternity/sorority membership, participation in more casual sexual encounters (“hook ups”) vs. exclusive/monogamous or no sexual relationships, binge drinking, and experiencing sexual assault before college. High rates of re-victimization during college were reported across gender groups. Our study is consistent with prevalence findings previously reported. Variation in types of assault and methods of perpetration experienced across gender groups highlight the need to develop prevention strategies tailored to specific risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude A. Mellins
- Division of Gender, Sexuality and Health, Departments of Psychiatry and Sociomedical Sciences, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kate Walsh
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Aaron L. Sarvet
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Melanie Wall
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Louisa Gilbert
- Social Intervention Group, School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - John S. Santelli
- Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Martie Thompson
- Department of Youth, Family, and Community Studies, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Patrick A. Wilson
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Shamus Khan
- Department of Sociology, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Stephanie Benson
- Division of Gender, Sexuality and Health, Departments of Psychiatry and Sociomedical Sciences, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Karimata Bah
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Kathy A. Kaufman
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Leigh Reardon
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jennifer S. Hirsch
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
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17
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Testa M, Cleveland MJ. Does Alcohol Contribute to College Men's Sexual Assault Perpetration? Between- and Within-Person Effects Over Five Semesters. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2017; 78:5-13. [PMID: 27936357 DOI: 10.15288/jsad.2017.78.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current longitudinal study was designed to consider the time-varying effects of men's heavy episodic drinking (HED) and drinking setting attendance on college sexual assault perpetration. METHOD Freshman men (N = 992) were recruited in their first semester and completed online measures at the end of their first five semesters. Using multilevel models, we examined whether men with higher frequency HED (or party or bar attendance) were more likely to perpetrate sexual assault (between-person, Level 2 effect) and whether sexual assault perpetration was more likely in semesters in which HED (or party or bar attendance) was higher than each individual's average (within-person, Level 1 effect). RESULTS The between-person effect of HED on sexual assault was not significant after accounting for the between-person effects of antisocial behavior, impersonal sex orientation, and low self-control. The within-person effect of HED on sexual assault perpetration was not significant. However, models substituting frequency of party attendance or bar attendance revealed both between- and within-person effects. The odds of sexual assault were increased for men with higher bar and party attendance than the sample as a whole, and in semesters in which party or bar attendance was higher than their own average. Supplemental analyses suggested that these drinking setting effects were explained by hookups, with sexual assault perpetration more likely in semesters in which the number of hookups exceeded one's own average. CONCLUSIONS Findings point toward the importance of drinking contexts, rather than drinking per se, as predictors of college men's sexual assault perpetration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Testa
- Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Michael J Cleveland
- Department of Human Development, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
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18
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Stotzer RL, MacCartney D. The Role of Institutional Factors on On-Campus Reported Rape Prevalence. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2016; 31:2687-2707. [PMID: 25900911 DOI: 10.1177/0886260515580367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Sexual assault is a serious concern on college and university campuses across the United States. However, the institutional factors that may make campuses more or less prone to rape are poorly understood. This study utilizes routine activities theory (RAT) to examine campus-related factors across 524 four-year campuses in the United States to determine what features of a campus community are most closely associated with increased reports of sexual assault. Results suggest that the type of athletic program, the number of students who live on campus, and the institution's alcohol policy were all found to be related to reported sexual assaults. Implications for understanding campus communities and prevention of sexual assaults are discussed.
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Gage AJ. Exposure to Spousal Violence in the Family, Attitudes and Dating Violence Perpetration Among High School Students in Port-au-Prince. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2016; 31:2445-2474. [PMID: 25810092 DOI: 10.1177/0886260515576971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the associations of exposure to spousal violence in the family and personal and peer attitudes with dating violence (DV) perpetration among high school students in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Participants were 342 high school students in Grades 10 to 12 who stated that they had ever been on a date. Multiple linear regression methods were used to examine correlates of the scale of DV perpetration. Findings showed that personal acceptance of DV mediated the association between exposure to wife-perpetrated and husband-perpetrated spousal violence in the family and DV perpetration for girls. Boys who were exposed to husband-perpetrated spousal violence in the family had significantly higher levels of psychological DV perpetration than those who were not. Contrary to expectations, exposure to wife-perpetrated spousal violence in the family was negatively associated with psychological and physical/sexual DV perpetration by boys, after controlling for other factors. Overall, perceived peer tolerance of DV was more strongly associated with DV perpetration than personal tolerance of DV, and was the only significant correlate of psychological DV perpetration for girls. Perceived peer attitudes also moderated the association between boys' exposure to spousal violence in the family and DV perpetration. Implications for future research and policy are discussed.
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Thompson MP, Kingree J(K, Zinzow H, Swartout K. Time-Varying Risk Factors and Sexual Aggression Perpetration Among Male College Students. J Adolesc Health 2015; 57:637-42. [PMID: 26592333 PMCID: PMC4660251 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2015.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Revised: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Preventing sexual aggression (SA) can be informed by determining if time-varying risk factors differentiate men who follow different sexual aggression risk trajectories. METHODS Data are from a longitudinal study with 795 college males surveyed at the end of each of their 4 years of college in 2008-2011. Repeated measures general linear models tested if changes in risk factors corresponded with sexual aggression trajectory membership. RESULTS Changes in the risk factors corresponded with SA trajectories. Men who came to college with a history of SA but decreased their perpetration likelihood during college showed concurrent decreases in sexual compulsivity, impulsivity, hostile attitudes toward women, rape supportive beliefs, perceptions of peer approval of forced sex, and perceptions of peer pressure to have sex with many different women, and smaller increases in pornography use over their college years. Conversely, men who increased levels of SA over time demonstrated larger increases in risk factors in comparison to other trajectory groups. CONCLUSIONS The odds that males engaged in sexual aggression corresponded with changes in key risk factors. Risk factors were not static and interventions designed to alter them may lead to changes in sexual aggression risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martie P. Thompson
- Corresponding author; Institute on Family and Neighborhood Life, 2083 Barre Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634; ; 864-656-6098
| | - J.B. (Kip) Kingree
- Department of Public Health Sciences, 517 Edwards Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634;
| | - Heidi Zinzow
- Department of Psychology, 418 Brackett Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634;
| | - Kevin Swartout
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, 140 Decatur St., Room 1108, Atlanta, GA 30303;
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21
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Thompson MP. Risk and protective factors for sexual aggression and dating violence: common themes and future directions. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2014; 15:304-309. [PMID: 24472793 DOI: 10.1177/1524838014521025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The primary aims of this article are to expand on three themes from the conference articles on risk and protective factors for dating and sexual violence and to offer suggestions that can guide future research. The first theme is the co-occurrence of sexual and dating violence with other forms of violence and other campus health issues. A second topic is the value of prospective studies in revealing temporal patterns of victimization and perpetration. A third theme is the role of peer norms in violence among college students. Suggestions for translating these ideas into research and action are discussed and include the need for comprehensive prevention approaches, more longitudinal research spanning the years before, during, and after college, and the application of social media technology in our interventions strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martie P Thompson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Health, Education, and Human Development, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
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