Pilot randomized controlled trial using the theory of planned behavior to promote sexual consent of undergraduates in Greek-letter organizations

Abstract

Objective

Sexual assault is prevalent among undergraduates in Greek-letter organizations (GLO). Prevention efforts promote sexual consent, though few explicitly employ theoretical constructs known to positively influence behavior. This study evaluated theory-informed educational posters promoting sexual consent seeking.

Participants

Forty undergraduate GLO students (20 female, 20 male) were recruited through in-person, email, and social media solicitation. Data collection was completed March–November 2019 during the spring and fall semesters.

Methods

A double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. Intervention participants viewed theory-informed educational posters promoting sexual consent.

Results

The intervention group demonstrated more favorable consent intention (p = .024; η² = 0.131) and consent subjective norms (p = .040; η² = 0.109). Intervention group males showed a greater improvement in one of four consent attitudes (p = .045; η² = 0.211).

Conclusions

Brief exposures to theory-informed messaging may help to improve subjective norms and behavioral intent to seek sexual consent among undergraduate GLO members.

Keywords:

• College
• consent
• experimental design
• Greek-letter organizations
• health education
• sexual assault

Conflict of interest disclosure

The authors have no conflicts of interest to report. The authors confirm that the research presented in this article met ethical guidelines, including adherence to the legal requirements of the United States of America, and received approval from the University of Miami’s Institutional Review Board.

Additional information

Funding

No funding was used to support this research and/or the preparation of the manuscript.