The Intended and Unintended Effects of Sexual Assault Policy Changes on College/University Campuses

• In Event: Policies Regarding Crime on Campus. How Universities and Colleges Respond

Abstract

In recent years, many colleges and universities have significantly reformed their policies to prevent and respond to sexual assaults. This change is likely due to a confluence of forces, including recent federal guidance on campus sexual violence, increased media attention, and survivor activism. Despite the intense focus on policy change at many universities, however, little is known about (1) how exactly campuses have been changing their policies, (2) whether the changes in policy are creating actual changes in practice in investigation or adjudication of these cases, or (3) the internal and external forces that shape campus efforts. In order to address these gaps, we collected survey data from staff members holding different positions on college and university campuses across the United States, including administration, survivor advocates, counselors, Title IX investigators, review boards, police, and faculty. A link to the web survey was sent out via relevant professional listservs and was directly sent to relevant staff on all campuses in two states—one with state policies for campus sexual assault prevention and response and one without. Results indicate that competing forces have shaped the process of policy implementation. Potential implications in an era of changing federal enforcement will also be discussed.

Authors

• Amy C. Hammock, Stony Brook University

• Carrie A. Moylan, Michigan State University