Characterizing Sexual Assault among Tribal College/University Students: A Study Assessing Risk & Resiliency Factors to Inform Prevention/Intervention Methods

Abstract

Adult sexual assault (ASA) rates among American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) individuals reveal an alarming public health disparity. Research demonstrates that experiences of ASA are associated with increased substance use, poorer mental health and increased sexual risk behavior. While mainstream higher education presents an elevated risk for ASA, there has been no research involving Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). TCUs combine personal attention with Indigenous cultural relevance. It is unclear if AIAN students at TCUs experience similar risk, or if their involvement in a personalized community may be a protective buffer. Phase 1 of the current study examines characteristics of ASA at baseline and the relationship between ASA severity and mental health outcomes. Phase 2 examines the rates of ASA at follow-up. Results of the current study suggest that ASA prevalence rates of AIAN students before TCU attendance are similar to the general population and that ASA prevalence rates during TCU attendance are lower than the general college population. However, AIAN students who experience ASA and discrimination are at an increased likelihood for negative mental health outcomes and re-victimization. In conclusion, interventions supporting a positive TCU environment and targeting minority stress may be effective ways to decrease ASA and negative mental health outcomes.