The impact of screening procedures on sexual assault estimates in college women: a brief report
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Sexual assault on U.S. college campuses remains a pervasive public health concern for college women, yet accurately estimating its prevalence presents ongoing challenges. Behaviorally-specific survey items yield significantly higher disclosure rates than single-item gate questions (e.g., "Have you ever been raped?"). This study compares these approaches in measuring forced penetration among college women. METHODS: Data were collected from Fall 2021 to Fall 2023 as part of an experimental study examining barriers to sexual refusal assertiveness. A total of 199 college women ages 18-25 completed behavioral measures assessing unwanted sexual experiences. RESULTS: Reports of forced penetration were approximately five times higher using a behaviorally-specific measure compared to a single gate question. DISCUSSION: These findings highlight the need for universities to use behaviorally-specific assessments in campus climate surveys to more accurately capture the scope of sexual assault and adequately support prevention and survivor resources.
Institution: Syracuse University
Language: English
Subfield: Gender Studies
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4412483628