NCJ Number
178946
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 13 Issue: 4 Dated: August 1998 Pages: 472-488
Date Published
August 1998
Length
17 pages
Annotation
A program to reduce women's risk of multiple sexual victimization was developed and empirically evaluated, using data from 406 women in psychology classes at a large midwestern university.
Abstract
The program consisted of information sheets, videotapes, completion and discussion of a worksheet on rape myths and facts, and discussion of the added risks of future victimization among sexual assault victims. The sign-up sheets described the study as an investigation of sexual experiences among college women. Each sign-up sheet accommodated up to 25 women. Participants were blind as to whether they would be participating in a treatment or control session; they were randomly assigned to sessions. The participants completed survey instruments at the beginning and end of the academic quarter to assess their history of sexual assault, dating behaviors, sexual communication, and knowledge about sexual assault. Results of the surveys suggested that the program was ineffective in reducing the incidence of sexual assault among participants. In addition, the program did not significantly affect dating behaviors, sexual communication, or knowledge about sexual assault. Furthermore, the ineffectiveness of the program in these areas did not appear to be related to participants' histories of sexual victimization. Possible reasons for the program's ineffectiveness are that it was not powerful enough to break the cycle of victimization or that it did not address the appropriate mechanisms of revictimization. Despite its disappointing results, the research provided a viable methodology for evaluating similar programs. Tables and 22 references (Author abstract modified)