Hidden Rape: A Survey of the Incidence of Sexual Aggression and Victimization on a University Campus.
Abstract
This study explores the existence of a continuum of sexual aggression among males and a corresponding continuum of sexual victimization among females. A 12-question Sexual Experiences Survey written in parallel versions for men and women was administered to 3,862 university students. Three levels of sexual aggression/victimization ranging from consensual sexual intercourse to actual rape were reported by both sexes, supporting a dimensional approach. Factor analysis of the survey instrument revealed three stable factors accounting for 51% of the variance. The factors corresponded to the three levels of sexual aggression/victimization, suggesting a viable alternative approach to sample selection for future rape research. The number of females reporting victimization was several times larger than the number of males reporting aggression. Further research should determine if males fail to report aggression, if each aggressive male victimized more than one woman, or if males and females differ in their perceptions of a given experience. (The survey instruments, as well as response tables, are included.) (NRB)