Adult Sexual Assault Research Articles

Sexual Trauma in Childhood and Adulthood as Predictors of Psychotic‐like Experiences: The Mediating Role of Dissociation

Research has highlighted the role of dissociation in understanding the trauma–psychosis relationship. Moreover, it has been proposed that the association between trauma and psychotic symptoms may be both directly and indirectly explained by dissociative processes. The current study sought to investigate the relationship between age at first sexual trauma, dissociative experiences and psychotic‐like experiences (PLEs) in 269 female trauma survivors (overall mean age = 32.11, SD = 10.55). Mediation analyses were employed to estimate the direct effects of childhood sexual abuse (CSA; mean age at abuse onset = 6.53, SD = 3.98) and adult sexual assault (ASA; mean age at abuse onset = 18.72, SD = 2.59) on PLEs, and the indirect effects via the three subscales of absorption, depersonalisation and amnesia. The findings showed that the CSA group was significantly associated with each of the three dissociation variables (p < 0.01 for each variable), while the ASA group was significantly associated with absorption and depersonalisation (p < 0.01 for each variable). Depersonalisation partially mediated the effect between CSA and PLEs, whereas the relationship between ASA and PLEs was fully mediated via depersonalisation. The findings are consistent with, and complement, models implicating depersonalisation as a unique mechanism in the pathways between sexually based victimisation and PLEs.Key Practitioner Messages CSA and ASA have both direct and indirect impacts on later psychological symptoms. Elucidating mechanisms by which sexual trauma leads to the transition to PLEs should be instrumental in treatment formulation. Depersonalisation is a complementary mechanism in the link between sexually based trauma and PLEs. Evaluating dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs is crucial for therapeutic intervention as these may contribute to the development and maintenance of symptoms. ‘Investigate[s] the relationship between age at first sexual trauma, dissociative experiences and psychotic‐like experiences… in 269 female trauma survivors’

Women’s Help-Seeking Behaviors for Sexual Health Issues and the Related Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study from Iran

Delay in help-seeking for sexual health issues may lead to relationship discord and impact the quality of life. The study aimed to explore the factors related to HSBs (help seeking behaviors) for sexual health issues and to determine the role of negative attitudes relating to sexual concerns in the HSBs of Iranian women. This cross-sectional study was performed in 2020. Participants were 390 randomly selected women from Rasht, Iran. The data were collected using a demographic and a sexual history checklist, the Female Sexual Function Index-6-item (FSFI-6), the Attitudes-related Sexual Concern Scale (ASCS), and a help-seeking behavior questionnaire. Formal help-seeking in women with sexual concern was 16.2% and 48.6% engaged informal HSB. Informal HSB was associated with younger age (OR = 0.93; CI = 0.89–0.97), having a university degree (OR = 3.42; CI = 1.89–6.18), sexual abuse in adulthood (OR = 2.59; CI = 1.07–6.26) and lower negative attitudes-related sexual concerns (OR = 0.53; CI = 0.32–0.87). Formal HSB was related to having a university degree (OR = 3.03; CI = 1.32–6.98) and history of a chronic disease (OR = 3.43; CI = 1.68–6.98). Negative attitudes relating to sexual concerns greatly impact informal HSBs of women, so it should be considered in their health care programming.

An Examination of Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Violence Among Individuals Who Identify As Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, And/or Transgender (LBGTQ)

A systematic review of literature published from 2006 to 2017 was conducted in order to examine intimate partner violence and sexual violence perpetrated against those individuals who identified as lesbian, bi-sexual, gay, and/or transgender (LBGT) and the challenges they faced from identifying as an LBGT individual. Results of the literature findings indicated that LBGT individuals are exposed to childhood sexual abuse, adult sexual assaults, intimate partner violence and hate crimes at significantly higher rates when compared to the general population. The examination of the literature revealed disproportionate rates of harassment, physical assaults, sexual assaults and intimate partner violence when compared to the general population. In addition, individuals who identify as LBGT are substantially prone to internalization of their feelings, making them prone to post-traumatic stress (PTS), depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicide. The lack of available support for the LBGT community leaves them feeling vulnerable and underserved. This research advocates for effective collaboration with social services with the aim of ensuring justice and equitable treatment for LBGT individuals.

Sexual assault investigations and the factors that contribute to a suspect's arrest

PurposeSexual assault investigations present uniquely challenging circumstances to detectives, and a small proportion result in arrest. Improving sexual assault investigations requires expanding the evidence base to improve our understanding of how these investigations unfold and the factors associated with positive case outcomes, including the likelihood that an offender is arrested.Design/methodology/approachThe authors abstracted data on 491 adult sexual assaults investigated by five large and midsized law enforcement agencies to describe the characteristics of sexual assault investigations and to explain the relationships between these characteristics and the likelihood that a suspect is arrested.FindingsOverall, detectives move swiftly to investigate sexual assaults but tend to miss investigative opportunities that increase the likelihood of an arrest, like locating and processing the crime scene or pursuing interviews with key witnesses and leads. Sexual assaults typically lack physical evidence that can be used to identify and lead to an arrest of a suspected offender; when this evidence is present, the case is more likely to result in an arrest. Delayed reporting of the crime to law enforcement decreases the likelihood of a suspect being arrested, but the mechanisms are unclear.Originality/valueFew studies have used a detailed data abstraction process for a large sample of cases from multiple law enforcement agencies to understand sexual assault investigations and their case outcomes. The results can improve practitioners' and researchers' understanding of sexual assault investigations, including those factors that increase the likelihood of a suspect's arrest.

Child Sexual Abuse and Adult Sexual Assault among Emerging Adults: Exploring the Roles of Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms, Emotion Regulation, and Anger

ABSTRACT Child sexual abuse (CSA) has been previously linked with a risk for adult sexual assault (ASA) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Yet, the relations between CSA, ASA, and other psychological outcomes that may contribute to increased risk for ASA are less clear. This study aims to: 1) examine the links between CSA and ASA and potential risk factors (i.e., PTSS, emotion dysregulation, anger), 2) determine whether there are indirect effects between CSA and ASA through each factor, and 3) investigate whether there are indirect effects between CSA and ASA through the DSM-5 posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom clusters. The sample included 567 undergraduates (Mage = 20.84, SD = 4.10; 81.1% women; 56.6% white) from two universities. Both CSA and ASA were related to PTSS, emotion dysregulation, and anger. There were indirect effects of CSA on ASA through PTSS and anger (B = .04, B = .01, respectively). CSA was associated with each of the PTSD symptom clusters, but only marked alterations in arousal and reactivity were linked with ASA (B = .01). The clusters had no indirect effects on the relation between CSA and ASA. These findings revealed several factors that may be linked with increased risk for sexual victimization.

Factors Affecting Sexual Assault Case Processing: Charging Through Sentencing in a Large Southern County.

Factors affecting prosecutorial decision-making represent one of the most understudied parts of the criminal justice system. Documenting these influences in relation to sexual assault cases is even more rare. The present study analyzed the complete prosecutorial case files of a large, southern district attorney's office regarding all adult sexual assault cases received over a three-year period. Logistic regression and continuation ratio modeling were used to determine which factors were related to continued progression through the court system, from charging to sentencing. The findings indicate that cases with older or Latino defendants, as well as cases involving injury to the victim, were significantly more likely to be charged. A continuation ratio model of subsequent case outcomes indicated that factors such as DNA evidence, the use of a weapon, and the inclusion of a victim impact statement increased the likelihood of a case progressing to later stages of the system. The influence of criminal history and the amount of prosecutor contact with the victim, however, varied across outcomes. Namely, criminal history increased the odds of receiving a prison sentence while prosecutor contacts with the victim increased the odds of case indictment. These findings imply potential shifts in the treatment of these cases while also suggesting areas of improvement. Namely, prosecutors should strive to increase the amount of meaningful contacts with victims and encourage their participation in the court process. These findings also support the use of sexual assault packets by law enforcement to improve and standardize reporting practices for these cases.

Prevalence of Traumas and PTSD Among Individuals Adjudicated Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity.

Trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common among psychiatric and criminal populations, yet there have been few studies among forensic psychiatric populations and no known studies have specifically examined insanity acquittees. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of trauma and to assess recognition of PTSD in forensic settings. Using a cross-sectional self-report survey methodology, we examined traumas, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and PTSD in insanity acquittees (n = 107). Most insanity acquittees experienced trauma (86%, averaging 11 events) and ACEs (76%, averaging 3 types). The most commonly experienced traumas were sudden death of a loved one, witnessed death or serious injury, adult physical assault, and motor vehicle accident. Women were significantly more likely to experience any ACE (especially witnessing domestic violence, household members with mental illness, emotional abuse, and emotional neglect) and adult sexual assault. PTSD prevalence was 25 percent, with 97 percent of cases being previously undiagnosed. Sexual traumas and younger age were significantly associated with PTSD. These results suggest that insanity acquittees have high levels of trauma, ACEs, and PTSD. While PTSD was about seven times more common than in previous findings in the general population, it frequently goes undiagnosed in forensic settings. Potential explanations and implications of our findings are discussed.

Association of depression, pain, resilience, social support with post-traumatic stress in sexual abuse: A quantile regression approach.

Post-traumatic stress levels and factors influencing the sexual abuse period may differ between victims. This cross-sectional study conducted a secondary analysis of primary online survey data extracted from a previous study. We examined the extent of trauma (types, timing) and depression, pain, resilience, and social support associated with post-traumatic stress affecting the post-traumatic stress percentile. Among 3000 adults aged 19-65 years, 1223 adults experienced childhood sexual abuse, adulthood sexual abuse, or childhood and adulthood sexual abuse. We conducted descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, and simultaneous quantile regression. Quantile regression analysis showed the 80th percentile groups in childhood sexual abuse, education, depression, and social support were significantly associated with post-traumatic stress. Depression was significantly and positively associated with post-traumatic stress. Resilience was significantly and negatively associated with post-traumatic stress in adulthood sexual abuse victims. Depression and pain were significantly and positively associated with post-traumatic stress in childhood and adulthood sexual abuse victims. Post-traumatic stress severity and influencing factors differed according to victims' age when the sexual abuse occurred, implying interventions should be tailored to each victim's post-traumatic stress level.

Prevalence of Sexual Abuse in Adults with Intellectual Disability: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This study presents the results of a systematic review on the prevalence of sexual abuse experienced in adulthood by individuals with intellectual disability. An electronic and manual search of academic journals was performed on four databases via EBSCO Host: Academic Search Complete, PsycINFO, Medline, CINAHL Full-Text. In addition, PubMed, ProQuest, and Web of Science (core collection) were searched. After an initial selection of 1037 documents, 25 articles remained for quantitative synthesis. The combined prevalence of sexual abuse in adults with intellectual disability was 32.9% (95% CI: 22.7–43.0) and sensitivity analysis revealed that the prevalence was not outweighed by a single study. Overall, the United Kingdom had the highest prevalence (r = 34.1%), and the USA had the lowest (r = 15.2%). The overall prevalence in females was lower (r = 31.8%) than that in males (r = 39.9%). Subgroup analyses revealed that prevalence of sexual abuse was higher in institutionalized individuals. The most prevalent profile of abuser is of a peer with intellectual disability. Prevalence increases from mild to severe levels of intellectual disability and decreases in profound levels. It is also more prevalent when the informant is the individual with intellectual disability than when someone else reports abuse. In sum, one in three adults with intellectual disability suffers sexual abuse in adulthood. Special attention should be paid for early detection and intervention in high risk situations.

A century of sexual abuse victimisation: A birth cohort analysis.

This study examined changes in the reported prevalence of adult and child sexual abuse over the last century and explored how changes in social and political circumstances may have affected rates. Data from two population-based face-to-face surveys conducted in New Zealand (samples of 2855 women in 2003 and 1464 women in 2019) were used to produce birth cohort prevalence estimates of three forms of sexual abuse including by an intimate partner (lifetime and 12-month), by non-partners, and child sexual abuse. A timeline of major population influences that might be associated with violence occurrence was developed. There were no changes in reported lifetime intimate partner sexual abuse prevalence estimates found over the past century. The most recent birth cohort reported the lowest rates of 12-month prevalence estimates for intimate partner sexual abuse, lifetime rates of non-partner sexual abuse, and also suggest lower reported rates of child sexual abuse. Macro-social events including feminist movements, changes in legislation, and an increase in public awareness might have contributed to women's awareness about the non-acceptability of violent behaviour, and their ability to leave relationships after violence has occurred. This may have contributed to the small recent decreases in reported 12-month rate of sexual IPV and CSA, as women's ability to leave relationships may be protective for their children. The recent decrease in reported non-partner sexual violence may also be attributed to women's greater awareness of, and agency to avoid sexual abuse. The lack of change for the lifetime prevalence of sexual IPV over the past century highlights the need for ongoing prevention efforts. While recent reductions in reported rates of child and adult sexual abuse are encouraging, even reduced rates are high and warrant sustained implementation of prevention policies and programs.

Exploring Mediators of the Link Between Childhood Sexual Abuse and Attempted or Completed Rape in a Mixed Gender College Sample

Research is needed to better understand risk for sexual revictimization following childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Using single and multigroup structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques, we examined (a) whether the relation between CSA and attempted or completed rape was mediated by attachment insecurity (either anxiety or avoidance) and sexual motives and (b) whether these models differed significantly by gender. Sexually active college students (920; 59% women, 84% White, 96% heterosexual) were recruited for an Internet-based self-report cross-sectional survey study. About half (49%) of individuals who experienced CSA also experienced victimization since age 14. Thirty-five percent of women and 18% of men reported rape or attempted rape since age 14. In Model 1 attachment anxiety only partially mediated revictimization for women. In Model 2 attachment avoidance did not mediate revictimization. In both models avoidance motives for sex partially mediated revictimization for women and men but this effect was stronger for men. These findings underscore the importance of conducting sexual revictimization research in mixed-gender samples. Our results suggest that rates of men's victimization may be higher than previously assumed, and evaluating gender differences with modeling techniques may help identify variables (i.e., attachment anxiety) that explain the greater prevalence of sexual assault in adulthood among women.

Supporting sexual assault survivors with disabilities: Tracing disclosure and referral pathways to postassault health care services.

National epidemiological data indicate that nearly 4 in 10 victims of recent sexual assaults have physical, cognitive/developmental, or mental health disabilities, which can make navigating postassault help seeking more challenging. To streamline services, many communities have created sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) programs for comprehensive health care, crisis intervention, medical forensic evidence collection, victim advocacy, and legal referrals. SANE programs are recommended as the national best practice for postassault care, but there is virtually no U.S.-based research on whether survivors with disabilities seek these services. The present study sought to identify the disclosure and referral pathways that successfully connected sexual assault survivors with disabilities to SANE programs for postassault care. Forensic nurses in one midwestern state recorded information about all adult sexual assault patients (N = 755) who sought care during a 9-month window of data collection. Survivors with disabilities were significantly less likely than those who did not have disabilities to disclose to informal support providers (e.g., family, friends) and those individuals were unlikely to suggest to survivors with disabilities that they seek postassault health care. Survivors with disabilities were significantly more likely than survivors who did not have disabilities to disclose to formal help sources and to be referred to SANE programs by other formal community services, typically the police. A strong referral network from law enforcement to SANE programs is important, but survivors who do not wish to pursue criminal investigation need reliable pathways to postassault health care. Strategies for promoting community awareness of SANE services are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).

The Right to Say No: Why Adult Sexual Assault Patients Decline Medical Forensic Exams and Sexual Assault Kit Evidence Collection.

The International Association of Forensic Nurses (2018) affirms the importance of evidence-based, trauma-informed, patient-centered forensic nursing services that engage patients as autonomous decision makers. Past research indicates that forensic nurses consistently respect patients' choices and control as they navigate the decisions of medical forensic examinations (MFEs) and sexual assault kit (SAK) collection. Building on that work, this study examined which options patients decline and what factors are associated with those declination decisions. We collected prospective data from seven state-funded sexual assault nurse examiner programs. Forensic nurses recorded information about all adult sexual assault patients (N = 783) regarding four primary decisions: whether to have a MFE, whether to consent to all parts of the MFE or to decline specific services, whether to have a SAK collected, and whether to release the SAK to law enforcement for forensic DNA testing. Most patients consented to a MFE (95%), to all parts of the MFE (81%), to SAK collection (99%), and to release the SAK for forensic DNA testing (80%). Younger patients and those with disabilities were more likely to decline some options. Patients who had not disclosed the assault to others before seeking sexual assault nurse examiner care were also more likely to decline a MFE. Whether patients sought post assault care for more health-focused reasons or legally focused reasons was associated with declination decisions. Healthcare providers should communicate clearly about each step in post assault care and allow patients to decline services as they choose.

Forensic photo-documentation in adult sexual assault– what do patients think?

Historically, some forensic practitioners and policy makers have viewed the use of photography in forensic documentation for adult victims of sexual assault as controversial. Some argue that diagrams and verbal descriptions of injury are sufficient, suggesting that sexual assault victims are so traumatised at time of examination that they are not able to provide valid consent, that the imaging process itself is humiliating, and that any decision to have photographs taken might be later regretted. Objectively, a patient capable of consenting to a forensic examination has an equal capacity to consent for forensic imaging, even when this involves sensitive areas of the body, and the process of forensic photography is not inherently problematic. Literature on forensic photography is sparse, particularly from the patient perspective. Our Forensic Medical Unit is in an excellent position to investigate this issue, as it is one of the few services in Australia that routinely offers sexual assault forensic photography, including genital, as part of its standard procedures for injury documentation. Photographs, in adult sexual assault cases, are not routinely taken of normal anatomy nor are they ever taken without patient consent.This study explores the immediate and short-term experiential impacts of forensic photography from the victims’ perspective. Capacity to consent was assessed using a trauma informed, evidence-based interviewing tool at the start of their forensic assessment. Participants also completed questionnaires at the conclusion of their examination and on follow-up. Results show that victims not only have the capacity to provide informed consent but also found forensic photography, and the reasons for it, quite acceptable. A majority [80%; n = 87/108] indicated the photographic process had either been not at all or only a little embarrassing. When asked how they felt about having photographs taken, the majority 93.4% [n = 99/106) indicated that as well as having no regrets they were also happy with the way the images had been taken. 4.7% [n = 5] expressed some doubt about whether they had made the right decision. A similar pattern of responses was observed at follow-up which occurred, on average, seven weeks post examination. 72% [n = 26/36] said they did not think about the photographs at all or did so rarely. While 14% [n = 5/36] said they thought about them a fair bit or a lot of the time, most stated they had no concerns regarding the images that had been taken.Given its evidentiary salience and other benefits, such as its potential to promote greater transparency in the provision of forensic opinions and its usefulness in teaching, this study supports the case for the routine use of forensic photography in adult Sexual Assault Units more broadly.

Relationship Variables in Group Psychotherapy for Women Sexual Trauma Survivors

ABSTRACT This study examined relational group psychotherapy processes, including group cohesion, bond with group leaders, perceptions of shame, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology for sexual trauma survivors. Six separate treatment groups of women who were either adult sexual assault survivors (N = 24) or adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (N = 9) participated in the study. Participants completed the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) pre- and posttreatment, the Group Climate Questionnaire, Bond scale of the Working Alliance Inventory Short Form (WAI-S), and Compass of Shame Scale at four intervals. Growth curve models analyzed Engagement, Bond, and Shame Reactions over time. PCL-5 scores were compared pre- and posttreatment and examined in relationship to the process variables of Engagement and Bond. Results showed increases in group cohesion and perceptions of Bond with group leaders and decreases in PTSD symptoms and attacking self-shame reactions. Clinical implications and recommendations for this population are presented.

The Prevalence and Correlates of Suicidal Ideation, Plans and Suicide Attempts among 15- to 69-Year-Old Persons in Eswatini.

The study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of ever suicide attempt and past 12-month suicidal ideation, plans and/or attempts among persons aged 15–69 years in Eswatini. Cross-sectional nationally representative data from 3281 persons (33 years median age, range 15–69) of the 2014 Eswatini STEPS Survey were analysed. Results indicate that 3.6% of participants had attempted suicide, and 10.1% engaged in past 12-month suicidal ideation, plan and/or attempts. In adjusted logistic regression analysis, having family members who died from suicide and childhood sexual abuse were associated with ever suicide attempt. In addition, in unadjusted analysis, female sex, adult sexual abuse, threats and family member attempted suicide were associated with ever suicide attempt. In adjusted logistic regression, female sex, childhood sexual abuse, adult sexual abuse, threats, family alcohol problems and having family members who died from suicide were associated with past 12-month suicidal ideation, plan and/or attempts. In addition, in unadjusted analysis, 25–34-year-old participants, unemployed and other, childhood physical abuse, violent injury, family member attempted suicide and having had a heart attack, angina or stroke were associated with past 12-month suicidal ideation, plans and/or attempts. One in ten participants were engaged in suicidal ideation, plans and/or attempts in the past 12 months, and several associated factors were identified that can inform intervention programmes.

Anti-Sexual Assault Activism and Positive Psychological Functioning among Survivors

In the present study, we examined the links between involvement in anti-sexual assault activism with post-traumatic growth and positive affect among 282 U.S. adult sexual assault survivors. We also explored potential mediators (i.e., self-blame, shame, community connection, meaning in life, trauma coping self-efficacy, and personal control) in these linkages. Results indicated that involvement in anti-sexual assault activism was positively correlated with both post-traumatic growth and positive affect. In addition, our findings revealed that involvement in anti-sexual assault activism was indirectly related to post-traumatic growth via community connection and coping self-efficacy/control (a composite variable) whereas involvement in anti-sexual assault activism was indirectly related to positive affect through meaning in life and coping self-efficacy/control. That is, more involvement in anti-sexual assault activism was related to greater community connection, more meaning in life, and greater coping/control which in turn was associated with more positive psychological functioning. Results of the present study may inform advocacy and support services and clinical interventions with survivors of sexual assault, with an emphasis on how collective action may foster positive mental health outcomes.

Differences in stressful life events between men and women experiencing homelessness.

People experiencing homelessness are particularly vulnerable to experiencing stressful life events (SLEs) at some point in their lives; these SLEs are crucial for understanding the etiology and maintenance of homelessness. This study analyses the differences between men and women experiencing homelessness in the suffering of SLEs throughout their lives (childhood, adolescence, and adulthood). The sample consisted of a group of 293 people experiencing homelessness in Madrid (Spain): 156 men and 137 women. The results suggest that the number and type of SLEs experienced by men and women are different. In general, women experiencing homelessness suffer more SLEs than men in all periods of their lives. The differences in the level of sexual violence in childhood, sexual abuse in adulthood, and abuse by a spouse or partner are particularly striking. However, men experiencing homelessness score significantly higher than women for alcohol abuse, police complaints, arrest, and imprisonment throughout their lives. These findings have significant implications for the design of interventions and social policies that should be tailored to the specific needs of men and women who are homeless.

From pain to power: An exploration of activism, the #Metoo movement, and healing from sexual assault trauma.

In this qualitative study, we explored the role that social activism and #MeToo and other large scale antiviolence activist movements may play in sexual assault survivors' healing process and how they navigate and make sense of their sexual assault experience. We interviewed 16 adult sexual assault survivors (13 women, 2 genderqueer/nonconforming individuals, and 1 identifying as a man and genderqueer) who were engaged in anti-sexual assault activism and analyzed their data using thematic analysis. Participants were predominately White and highly educated. We found that activism helped participants find their voice and regain their power. They described a process of moving from silence and shame around their sexual assault to freedom and empowerment. Their involvement in activism and/or connection to larger scale antiviolence activist movements (a) helped increase their understanding of themselves and their sexual assault experience, (b) served as a useful coping mechanism, (c) improved their self-confidence and relationships, (d) allowed them to stand up and speak out against attitudes and behaviors that foster rape culture, (e) provided support, validation, and connection to others, and (f) provided a source of meaning and fulfillment in their lives. Helping other survivors through their activist work also contributed to participants' healing process. Participants also described challenges associated with anti-sexual assault activism and #MeToo and related movements. These included being triggered, being inundated with media coverage and public narratives about sexual assault, burning out, and feeling disillusioned and frustrated. Finally, participants noted the importance of mainstream movements in increasing awareness. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

Female-Perpetrated Sexual Violence: A Survey of Survivors of Female-Perpetrated Childhood Sexual Abuse and Adult Sexual Assault.

Individuals who experience female-perpetrated sexual assault (FPSA) are underrepresented in the sexual victimization literature. Much of the existing research on FPSA centers on child welfare-involved families and convicted or incarcerated female sexual offenders, with limited research devoted to victims of FPSA. The current study included a diverse sample of 138 community adults who experienced one or more incident of FPSA, and sought to (a) describe individuals who experienced FPSA, including their overall trauma exposure, (b) describe perpetrator age and relationship to the respondent, (c) explore whether respondents labeled FPSA as sexual assault and disclosed it to others, and (d) examine the prevalence of depressive and posttraumatic symptoms in this population. Of the respondents, 61.6% experienced childhood FPSA, 18.8% experienced adulthood FPSA, and 19.6% experienced both childhood and adulthood FPSA. Survivors of FPSA were highly trauma exposed; 71.7% reported a male-perpetrated victimization, over 90% reported any childhood sexual abuse, over 60% reported any adulthood victimization, 55.1% reported victimizations in both childhood and adulthood, and 78.3% endorsed any revictimization. Perpetrators of FPSA were often known individuals, including friends, family members, babysitters, and romantic partners. Incidents of female perpetrators co-offending with males accounted for only 5.5%-8.5% of FPSA events, contrary to myths about female offending. Incidents of FPSA were often labeled as sexual assault in retrospect, but only 54.3% of respondents ever disclosed an incident of FPSA. Depressive and posttraumatic symptoms were common. Results indicate FPSA is typically perpetrated by individuals acting alone who are known to and close to the victim. Incidents of FPSA may not be labeled as sexual abuse or assault at the time of the event, are not frequently disclosed, and may carry long-term mental health consequences for survivors. Significant research efforts are needed to better identify and help these underrecognized, highly trauma burdened survivors of violence.