Theses and Dissertations
Issuing Body
Mississippi State University
Advisor
Berman, Mitchell E.
Committee Member
Eakin, Deborah K.
Committee Member
Sinclair, H. Colleen
Date of Degree
8-11-2012
Original embargo terms
MSU Only Indefinitely
Document Type
Graduate Thesis - Campus Access Only
Major
Psychology
Degree Name
Master of Science
College
College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Department of Psychology
Abstract
Research supports the notion that sexual and physical assault history is associated with the use of self-protective strategies. One shortcoming in this area of research is the reliance on dichotomous (yes-no) measures of assault as opposed to number of experiences. The aim of this study was to determine if the number of sexual and physical assaults experienced is associated with self-protection behaviors, controlling for general safety concerns. Women (N = 293) completed measures of sexual and physical assault, self-protective behaviors, fear, and safety concerns using a web based survey. Contrary to expectations, sexual and physical assault (and the interactive effect of these variables) were not related to self-protective behaviors. However, safety concerns and overall fear were positively associated with the use of self-protective behaviors. These findings have implications for the creation of interventions aimed at victims of crime.
URI
https://hdl.handle.net/11668/20025
Recommended Citation
Hatcher, Sheridan Hope, "Are Self-Protective Behaviors Associated with Sexual and Physical Assault in Women?" (2012). Theses and Dissertations. 726.
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/td/726