1523 - REACHING DIVERSE STUDENTS: SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC PATTERNS IN CAMPUS SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION PARTICIPATION

Session: P_D03S003 - Poster Session 3 - Division 3
AUTHORS:
Lateef Rusan (Université de Sherbrooke ~ Sherbrooke ~ Canada) , Paquette Geneviève (Université de Sherbrooke ~ Sherbrooke ~ Canada) , Dion Jacinthe (Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières ~ Trois-Rivières ~ Canada) , Hébert Martine (Université du Québec à Montréal ~ Montréal ~ Canada) , Baril Karine (Université du Québec en Outaouais ~ Saint-Jérôme ~ Canada) , Bergeron Manon (Université du Québec à Montréal ~ Montréal ~ Canada) , Dagenais Christian (Université de Montréal ~ Montréal ~ Canada) , Fethi Ihssane (Université du Québec à Montréal ~ Montréal ~ Canada) , Parent Sylvie (Université Laval ~ Québec ~ Canada) , Pelland Marie-Andrée (Université de Moncton ~ Moncton ~ Canada) , Savoie Lise (Université de Moncton ~ Moncton ~ Canada) , Senn Charlene (University of Windsor ~ Windsor ~ Canada) , Daigneault Isabelle (Université de Montréal ~ Montréal ~ Canada)
Abstract text:
Campus sexual violence is a pervasive problem worldwide. Students from marginalized groups are more vulnerable to campus sexual violence, but often do not trust or access campus resources, including prevention programs. Applied psychology plays a vital role in understanding these dynamics and ensuring that sexual assault prevention programs effectively reach those who need them most.


This study examined participation trends in a French adaptation of the Enhanced Assess, Acknowledge, Act (EAAA) program (also known as Flip the Script with EAAATM), an evidence-based sexual violence prevention program designed for 17- to 24-year-old for university students who self-identify as women, across five Canadian universities. Using data collected over three years, we compared the characteristics of students who chose to participate in the program (n = 268) with those in a representative student control group (n = 710). Sociodemographic variables included gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, ethnic background, and residency status (domestic or international student). Alcohol use and history of childhood trauma were also compared between groups.


Results revealed an overrepresentation among program participants of students from several groups at higher risk of campus sexual violence, including international students, students with disabilities, gender-diverse students, and those reporting childhood trauma, among others. At the same time, some high-risk groups were not more likely to participate in the program, particularly students who binge drink. These findings suggest that some students may perceive a greater need for prevention programs, while others remain unreached.


Conclusions highlight the importance of considering sociodemographic and risk factors when designing and implementing campus sexual violence prevention programs. In this study, recruitment strategies appeared to encourage higher participation among students from many marginalized groups. Tailoring outreach strategies to increase accessibility and trust among marginalized groups can enhance program reach to those most vulnerable to campus sexual violence.