A preliminary examination of factors related to the comprehensiveness of sexual violence prevention efforts at Indiana institutions of higher education
Abstract
This explanatory sequential mixed methods study examined factors potentially related to the comprehensiveness of approach to sexual violence prevention at Indiana institutions of higher education (IHE). This study consisted of two separate phases of data collection, in which information was gathered on sexual violence prevention efforts at Indiana IHEs. In the first, quantitative phase, a survey was completed by sexual violence prevention coordinators at 11 Indiana IHEs. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 4 of the survey respondents. In the final step of the study, the quantitative and qualitative findings were mixed in order to find the greatest meaning in both phases, as a single study. The objectives of this study were multifaceted: to assess sexual violence prevention efforts at each IHE; to determine what, if any, institutional characteristics are associated with comprehensiveness of approach to sexual violence prevention; to see what trends, commonalities, and differences, if any, existed across IHEs; and to elucidate related problems in implementation of sexual violence prevention efforts. The goal of this research was to help to guide future decisions regarding sexual violence prevention efforts at IHEs. Further, this study involved the development and revision of a survey instrument intended for use at IHEs as a self-assessment of comprehensiveness of approach to sexual violence prevention. The survey data showed that several institutional characteristics, particularly student enrollment, may be related to comprehensiveness of approach to sexual violence prevention. Themes that emerged from the qualitative data included the influences of resources, dedicated staff time, grant funding, and administrative support upon sexual violence prevention efforts. Implications of these findings, as well as conclusions and future research directions, were presented. In this study, the use of both quantitative and qualitative methods, as well mixing the two separate strands of data together, allowed for a thorough, comprehensive picture of sexual violence prevention in Indiana.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Harper, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Womens studies|Public health|Higher education
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