Exploring Alternative Sexual Assault Prevention Strategies

Much research has been done on sexual assault incidences and sexual assault prevention interventions. However, only one study has focused on the "Yes Means Yes" (YMY) model, a recent approach created to increase awareness around consent that emphasizes the importance of a clear and enthusiastic "yes" prior to any sexual advances (Lafrance, Loe, & Brown, 2012). We are exploring individuals' attitudes toward sexual assault after a YMY intervention in comparison with a control group. We expect that after the intervention, the experimental group will demonstrate significant attitudinal changes toward consent and sexual assault after participating in this study. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups: a) Yes means yes or b) Relationships information (control group). Online quantitative pre- and post-tests are administered to measure attitudes toward sexual assault and consent. Measures include scales focused on rape myth acceptance and perceptions of sexual assault. Additionally, qualitative data will be collected immediately following the intervention to assess participants’ subjective experiences of the presentations and discussions. Qualitative results indicated a desire for more discussion and less lecture, greater inclusion of genders besides women, and more self-reflective discussion questions. The current study was a pilot study, representing one limitation of this project.We expect further analysis to demonstrate a significant difference between the interventions, prompting support for the development of a "Yes Means Yes" prevention education program. Future directions for research include more intervention studies with greater discussion components. Newman, A.D., Sanchez, M.S., Mary, C., & Badiee, M., 2014.