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Preventing Sexual Violence on College Campuses: Lessons From Research and Practice

NCJ Number
247982
Author(s)
Sarah DeGue; Dawn Fowler; Allison Randall
Date Published
May 2014
Length
39 pages
Annotation
Based on lessons learned from research and practice, this three-part presentation identifies proven strategies for preventing sexual violence on college campuses.
Abstract
Part One discusses evidence-based strategies for the primary prevention of sexual violence. Tables list specific colleges with accompanying descriptions of their program for preventing sexual violence. Only two programs have rigorous evidence of effectiveness for preventing sexual violence. Both were used with middle/high school students, but may provide useful models for the development of college-level prevention strategies. Other strategies that hold promise are building relationship skills, organizational policies or practices that improve safety, addressing social norms and behavior with messages from trusted people, and training students to intervene as bystanders. Part Two reviews prevention activities implemented by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) through its rape prevention and education program. Just over 125 college and university campuses across the United States have affiliations with this program in order to facilitate the implementation of sexual violence prevention strategies and activities. Part Three describes campus prevention activities funded by the U.S. Justice Department's Office of Violence Against Women.