Risk Factors for Physical Assault and Rape Among Six Native American Tribes

• NCJ Number: 235272
• Journal: Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 21 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2006 Pages: 1566-1590
• Author(s): Nicole P. Yuan; Mary P. Koss; Mona Polacca; David Goldman
• Date Published: December 2006
• Length: 25 pages
• Contract Number(s): N01AA51012
• Sponsoring Agency: US Dept of Health and Human Services
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examines the problems of violence among Native American communities.

Abstract

Prevalence and correlates of adult physical assault and rape in 6 Native American tribes are presented (N = 1,368). Among women, 45 percent reported being physically assaulted and 14 percent were raped since age 18 years. For men, figures were 36 percent and 2 percent, respectively. Demographic characteristics, adverse childhood experiences, adulthood alcohol dependence, and cultural and regional variables were assessed. Using logistic regression, predictors of physical assault among women were marital status, an alcoholic parent, childhood maltreatment, and lifetime alcohol dependence. Predictors of sexual assault among women were marital status, childhood maltreatment, and lifetime alcohol dependence. Among men, only childhood maltreatment and lifetime alcohol dependence predicted being physically assaulted. Tribal differences existed in rates of physical assault (both sexes) and rape (women only). The results underscore the problem of violence victimization among Native Americans and point to certain environmental features that increase risk of adulthood physical and sexual assault. Implications for tribe-specific interventions are discussed. (Published Abstract)