Campus Sexual Assault: An Analysis of Current Canadian University Policies

• In Event: Posters I

Abstract

Sexual assault on university campuses is not a new problem, but has become a growing concern in recent years partly as a result of several high profile incidents. This problem has resulted in universities seeking to take action to address the issue. One way to do so is through university policies, as policies can guide the actions of university members and administration by providing a framework for them to work with. This research explores the policies currently implemented at Canadian universities for addressing sexual assaults affecting members of the university community. Our sample included 79 universities across Canada and just over 100 current policies. Policies vary in nature and scope, with some directed specifically at sexual assault, while others are directed more generally at harassment and discrimination. We provide a classification of the types of policies that exist, and examine the relationship between the type of policy and other institutional characteristics (e.g., student population, university location, availability of services and resources, awareness campaigns) to determine if such factors are predictive of policy types. Results are discussed in relation to potential implications for how universities are able to address and effectively manage the concern of sexual assaults.

Authors

• Chelsey Lee, Simon Fraser University

• Jennifer Wong, Simon Fraser University