Campus sexual assault climate surveys: A brief exploration of publicly available reports

ABSTRACT

Objective: Despite popularity of climate surveys as a tool produce accurate data on campus sexual assault, little is known about how campuses are administering these surveys, what they are assessing, and what they are finding. Participants: A sample of 105 campus climate survey reports was located with an internet search during the 2015–2016 academic year. Methods: Review of climate survey reports assessed the methodology used, such as sampling method, use of incentives and sample size and response rate. Document review also assessed the topics included in the climate survey reports and key findings related to victimization, perpetration, and student knowledge of resources. Results: Most campuses reported victimization rates, but few reported perpetration rates. Students generally express confidence in their knowledge of campus resources, but reporting of sexual violence was low. Conclusion: Climate surveys are inconsistent and do not always use scientifically sound measurement. Suggestions for improving climate surveys are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• College
• university
• campus climate
• sexual assault

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Katelyn Albright and Melanie Carlson for their assistance.