NCJ Number
116532
Journal
Journal of the Center for Women Policy Studies Volume: 11 Issue: 3 Dated: (1988) Pages: 9-13
Date Published
1988
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This study of sexual aggression and victimization was based on a survey of 430 students at three small, rural colleges on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, and results were compared with studies done at large urban universities.
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to determine the nature and extent of sexual activity, including aggression and victimization, in the lives of a representative group of men and women. Five classifications of sexual aggression and coercion were defined, which involves behavior that spans a continuum from manipulative persuasion to physical attack. Data were collected using a modified Sexual Experience Survey, and questionnaires were distributed to men and women. The results showed that sexual aggression and victimization were occurring at a significant levels in the area studied, with the at-risk population appearing to be all dating females. Since 14 percent of the victimized females were raped before they reached ninth grade, practical education about human sexuality and relationships should, according to these authors, begin in elementary school, and continue throughout the high school and college years. Specific recommendations for these educational programs were identified. 4 tables, 11 references.