Prevalence and predictors of sexual assault among a college sample |
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| Authors: | A H Conley C M Overstreet S E Hawn K S Kendler D M Dick A B Amstadter |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Counselor Education, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA;2. Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA;3. Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA |
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| Abstract: | Objective: This study examined the prevalence and correlates of precollege, college-onset, and repeat sexual assault (SA) within a representative student sample. Participants: A representative sample of 7,603 students. Methods: Incoming first-year students completed a survey about their exposure to broad SA prior to college, prior trauma, personality, relationships, and mental health. Broad SA was then reassessed each spring semester while enrolled. Results: Nearly 20% of the sample reported experiencing broad SA, with women endorsing significantly higher rates compared with males. Prior victimization before coming to college was related to a greater risk of victimization in college, and there was no statistically significant difference between males and females who reported revictimization. Correlates of college-onset broad SA were found and are discussed. Conclusions: Given the need for SA intervention and prevention on college campuses, identification of factors potentially contributing to exposure within this population is essential. |
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| Keywords: | PTSD resilience revictimization sexual assault sexual victimization trauma |
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