Citation

Conley AH, Overstreet CM, Hawn SE, Kendler KS, Dick DM, Amstadter AB. J. Am. Coll. Health 2016; 65(1): 41-49.

Affiliation

b Department of Psychiatry , Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , VA , USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07448481.2016.1235578

PMID

27628533

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the prevalence and correlates of sexual assault (SA) pre-college, college onset, and repeat 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 re-assessed each spring semester while enrolled.

RESULTS: Nearly 20% of the sample reported experiencing broad SA, with women endorsing significantly higher rates compared to 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.

Language: en