This annotated bibliography lists English-language research on a range of topics related to sexual violence in the U.S. It is intended to provide an overview of sexual violence involving diverse populations and settings, as well as policy, survivor services, and cultural influences. Such research can give service providers, researchers, and policymakers information on the prevalence of sexual victimization, risk and protective factors specific to different populations, and service needs of diverse groups.

Publications were selected based on the following criteria: 
•	Published between 2019-2024.
•	If they drew data related to sexual violence from a nationally representative, multi-state, statewide, or otherwise large sample.
•	If they performed a literature review of the body of research on a given topic.  

Literature reviews offer windows into the current state of research on a subject, while large sample sizes are more likely to provide accurate snapshots of sexual assault incidence and prevalence among different populations.

Key takeaways from each study are highlighted in yellow.  


General:

Basile, K. C., Smith, S. G., Kresnow, M., Khatiwada, S., & Leemis, R. W. (2022). The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2016/2017 report on sexual violence. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nisvs/documentation/nisvsReportonSexualViolence.pdf 
 
This report summarizes 2016/2017 NISVS data on sexual victimization, gathered from a nationally representative sample of 27,571 adults (15,152 women and 12,419 men) residing in the U.S. The report documents lifetime and 12-month prevalence of five types of sexual violence, including attempted and completed rape, sexual coercion, unwanted sexual contact, being made to penetrate someone (males only), and sexual harassment in a public setting. The 2016/2017 NISVS data reveals that sexual victimization remains prevalent among both men and women in the U.S., with approximately half of female respondents and almost one-third of male respondents reporting lifetime contact sexual victimization.



Raj, A., Johns, N., Yore, J., Closson, K., Kully, G., & Thomas, J. (2023). The 2023 California Violence Experiences Survey (CalVEX). University of California San Diego, Center on Gender Equity and Health, and Tulane University, Newcomb Institute. https://geh.ucsd.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2023_CalVEX_Report_03.04.24.pdf
 
This 2023 study drew data from 3,560 adults residing in California on violence perpetration, violent victimization, correlations between victimization and mental health, and the overlap between victimization and discrimination. The 2023 CalVEX study gauged lifetime and 12-month experiences of three types of physical violence, six types of sexual violence, and five types of discrimination/microaggression, exploring associations between victimization, mental health problems, substance misuse, financial distress, sociodemographics, and sociostructural considerations.



Raj, A., Johns, N.E., Closson, K., Mahoney, A., Yore, J., Kully, G., LaVeist, T., & Theall, K. (2023). The Louisiana Violence Experiences Survey (LaVEX) 2023. The Newcomb Institute at Tulane University, and the Center on Gender Equity and Health at University of California San Diego. https://newcomb.tulane.edu/LaVEX 
 
This report on the Louisiana Violence Experiences Survey (LaVEX) documents lifetime and 12-month experiences of violence among 1,081 adults residing in Louisiana. The study assessed experiences of physical violence victimization, sexual violence victimization, intimate partner violence victimization, discrimination victimization, and violence perpetration, as well the relationship between victimization and sociodemographics, mental health, financial distress, and life events.



Raj, A., Rao, N., Patel, P., & Kearl, H. (2024). #MeToo 2024: A national study of sexual harassment and assault in the United States. Newcomb Institute at Tulane University. https://newcomb.tulane.edu/content/metoo-research 
 
This report, a 2024 follow-up to the 2018 report The Facts Behind the #MeToo Movement: A National Study on Sexual Harassment and Assault, seeks to offer a national estimate on the prevalence of sexual violence in the U.S. Drawing data from a multi-state sample of 3,383 adults residing in the U.S., this study found that the majority of female respondents and more than two-fifths of male respondents indicated that they had experienced lifetime sexual harassment or sexual assault. The report concludes with recommendations meant to raise public awareness, encourage social norm change, strengthen accountability structures, and improve support for vulnerable populations.


Housing and Homelessness:  
Fedina, L., Ashwell, L., Bright, C., Backes, B., Newman, M., Hafner, S., & Rosay, A. B. (2022). Racial and gender inequalities in food, housing, and healthcare insecurity associated with intimate partner and sexual violence. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 37(23-24), NP23202–NP23221. https://doi.org/10.1177/08862605221077231 
 
This analysis examined the relationship between intimate partner violence and sexual violence victimization, food insecurity, housing insecurity, and healthcare insecurity. Using data from the 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS), the authors found that both cisgender male and female respondents who experienced intimate partner or sexual violence were nearly twice as likely to have experienced food, housing, and healthcare insecurity. Black, Latin@, and American Indian or Alaska Native respondents who reported experiencing violence had the highest rates of food, housing, and healthcare insecurity.



Marcus, R., Trujillo, L., Olansky, E., Cha, S., Hershow, R. B., Baugher, A. R., Sionean, C., & Lee, K. (2024). Transgender women experiencing homelessness – National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Among Transgender Women, seven urban areas, United States, 2019-2020. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 73(1), 40–50. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/su/pdfs/su7301a5-H.pdf   
 
This CDC analysis of data from the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Among Transgender Women sought to find correlations between duration of homelessness, personal traits, social factors, violent victimization, and discrimination among a multi-state sample of transgender women. Out of a sample of 1,566 transgender women residing in seven U.S. cities, 40% indicated that they had experienced homelessness during the previous 12 months. Respondents who indicated that they had experienced forced sex, intimate partner violence, housing discrimination, or incarceration were more likely to have experienced 30-365 days of homelessness. Additionally, younger respondents, respondents with a disability, and respondents with higher psychological distress scores were more likely to have experienced longer durations of homelessness.



Um, M. Y., Manikonda, L., Eapen, D. J., Ferguson, K. M., Santa Maria, D. M., Narendorf, S. C., Petering, R., Barman-Adhikari, A., & Hsu, H. (2024). Predicting intimate partner violence perpetration among young adults experiencing homelessness in seven U.S. cities using interpretable machine learning. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 40(7-8), 1727-1751. https://doi.org/10.1177/08862605241263588 
 
This article looked at variables predicting physical intimate partner violence perpetration among homeless young adults in urban settings. The analysis drew data from 1,426 homeless adults (ages 18-26) residing in seven U.S. cities who participated in the Homeless Youth Risk and Resilience Survey. Sexual victimization, intimate partner violence victimization, exposure to parental intimate partner violence during childhood, experiences of discrimination, and high scores on PTSD screening were among the variables positively correlated with physical intimate partner violence perpetration.


Disaster:

Boddy, J., Harris, C., O'Leary, P., Hohenhaus, M., Bond, C., Panagiotaros, C., & Holdsworth, L. (2024). Intersections of intimate partner violence and natural disasters: A systematic review of the quantitative evidence. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 25(4), 3131-3148. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380241249145 
 
This systematic literature review assessed existing evidence of the relationship between natural disasters and intimate partner violence (IPV) around the world. The authors reviewed 27 peer-reviewed scholarly articles published between 1990 and 2023 that included quantitative data. Of the articles reviewed, 14 out of 17 found an increase in physical IPV, 7 out of 10 found an increase in psychological IPV, and 8 out of 12 found an increase in sexual IPV during or after disasters. However, many of the included studies suffered from limitations, such as a lack of an explicit theoretical framework or a failure to differentiate between escalation of existing IPV and new instances of IPV. The literature review explored risk and protective factors for IPV during and after natural disasters, such as victim mental health status, intimate partner alcohol consumption, residence in displacement camps, social support, and availability of community resources.



Murphy, M., Ellsberg, M., Balogun, A., & García-Moreno, C. (2023). Risk and protective factors for violence against women and girls living in conflict and natural disaster-affected settings: A systematic review. Trauma, Violence & Abuse, 24(5), 3328–3345. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380221129303 
 
This literature review analyzes 86 scholarly articles encompassing 77 studies on risk and protective factors for violence against women and girls (VAWG) in armed conflict and natural disasters. The 86 articles, published between 1997-2022, cover both quantitative and qualitative studies from settings around the world on sexual violence, intimate partner violence, transactional sex, sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation, child and early marriage, and forced marriage. Armed conflict and natural disaster exposure were associated with higher rates of sexual violence, intimate partner violence, child marriage, and transactional sex. Other variables, including agreement with gender inequitable attitudes, poverty, lack of familial and social support, power differentials among intimate partners, and alcohol use were positively correlated with different forms of VAWG. The presence of infrastructure and higher educational achievement were protective factors against VAWG.


Justice System/Incarceration:
Ahlin, E. M. (2021). Taking stock of sexual victimization among youth in correctional facilities: Is it time to apply the evidence to reduce risk? From Birch, P., & Sicard, L. A., eds. (2021). Prisons and community corrections: Critical issues and emerging controversies. New York, NY: Routledge. 
 
This article assesses the current state of research on sexual victimization among incarcerated youth. The article reviews five national surveys on sexual victimization in correctional facilities from 2007-2012 and discusses their findings on incidence, prevalence, and risk factors for victimization. Next, the author discusses gaps in the body of research that could serve as future research directions, such as research on negative sequelae of sexual victimization among incarcerated youth, and research involving theoretical testing using ecological frameworks. Additionally, the author identifies ethical considerations for performing research on incarcerated youth, including youth assent, parental and facility consent, protection of confidentiality, and proper handling of sensitive data.



Freemon, K. R., Montes, A. N., Morgan, S., & Cochran, J. C. (2023). Reporting sexual victimization during incarceration: A national-level assessment of formal reporting in jails. Crime & Delinquency, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/00111287221150421 
 
This study reviewed a nationally representative sample of persons aged 16 and above who had experienced sexual assault while incarcerated. The authors sought to identify correlations between formal reporting of sexual assault, victim demographics, assault characteristics, and institutional characteristics. The study analyzed a sample of 1,014 sexual violence victims surveyed by the National Inmate Survey, 2011-2012 (77% male; 51% ages 20-29). Demographic variables such as victim age, race, and sexual orientation were not statistically significant predictors of sexual victimization reporting. Additionally, social support and prison overcrowding were not statistically significant predictors of reporting. However, victims were more likely to report their sexual victimization if they had attained at least a high school diploma or GED, been incarcerated for "other" offenses (crimes not categorized as violent, sexual, property, or drug offenses), sustained an injury during the sexual assault, and viewed prison staff as safe and legitimate authority figures.



U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General. (2023). Evaluation of the Federal Bureau of Prisons' efforts to address sexual harassment and sexual assault committed by inmates toward staff. U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General. https://oig.justice.gov/sites/default/files/reports/23-034.pdf
 
In May 2019, the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General launched an evaluation of the prevalence and impact of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment in Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) correctional settings. The Office of the Inspector General evaluated Department of Justice and Bureau of Prisons policies, interviewed more than 100 BOP staff across the U.S., spoke with BOP inmates and external stakeholders, and conducted an online survey of 7,334 BOP staff. The evaluation found that the BOP has been unable to gauge the full scope and prevalence of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment. Because of this inadequate data, the BOP has not adequately addressed the problem, which has negatively impacted BOP staff. Staff training on inmate-on-staff sexual harassment is minimal. The report concludes with recommendations for incident tracking, staff training, policy, and mitigation.


School K-12:

DeGue, S., Ray, C. M., Bontempo, D., Niolon, P. H., Tracy, A. J., Estefan, L. F., Le, V. D., & Little, T. D. (2023). Prevalence of violence victimization and perpetration during middle and high school in underresourced, urban communities. Violence and Victims, 38(6), 839-873. http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/VV-2022-0033 
 
This study sought to identify rates of violence victimization, violence perpetration, and witnessing violence among urban, predominantly black and Hispanic, youth. A multi-state cohort of 3,466 youth in grades 6-11 was surveyed from 2011-2016 on their experiences of sexual harassment, sexual violence, physical violence, bullying, cyberbulling, and various forms of dating violence. Emotional dating violence, physical dating violence, bullying, and sexual harassment were among the most commonly reported forms of victimization and perpetration. Several forms of violent victimization, perpetration, and witnessing, including sexual harassment and sexual violence, peaked around 7th and 8th grade, declining thereafter. The authors discuss the implications of these findings for prevention, policy, and health. 



Jeglic, E. L., Calkins, C., Kaylor, L., Margeotes, K., Doychak, K., Blasko, B., Chesin, M., & Panza, N. (2022). The nature and scope of educator misconduct in K-12. Sexual Abuse, 35(2), 188–213. https://doi.org/10.1177/10790632221096421 
 
This study sought to document the scope and nature of educator sexual misconduct against students in grades K-12 in the U.S. Out of a sample of 6,632 undergraduate students from New York, New Jersey, California, and Texas, 11.7% of respondents indicated that they had experienced educator sexual misconduct in grades K-12. Perpetrators were overwhelmingly male (85%), and the most commonly identified perpetrators were academic teachers and coaches/gym teachers. Victims of educator sexual misconduct were more likely than non-victims to report current alcohol consumption, current illicit drug use, past suicide attempts, experiences of coercive sexual intercourse, and a history of sexual abuse by non-educators. The study explores grooming behaviors used by educator perpetrators, disclosure experiences by victims, and negative impacts of abuse reported by victims. The article discusses the implications of findings for bystander intervention and prevention.


Higher Education:

Cantor, D., Fisher, B., Thomas, G., Townsend, R., Herbison, R., Madden, K., Mann, E., Kalmanovich, Y., Hershey-Arista, M., Harding, L., & Collins, L. (2024). Report on the Higher Education Sexual Misconduct and Awareness Survey: Aggregate report. Westat. https://www.westat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HESMA_FinalAggregateReport_10_21_24.pdf 

 
This report documents the findings of the 2024 Higher Education Sexual Misconduct and Awareness (HESMA) survey, which gathered data on sexual violence, intimate partner violence, and stalking victimization among university students. HEMSA drew data from a sample of 180,323 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students from 10 universities across the U.S. The survey uncovered a small decrease in nonconsensual sexual contact by physical force or inability to consent between 2019 and 2024, possibly due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. HEMSA also explored student beliefs about school officials receiving sexual assault reports, as well as student self-perceptions about their knowledge of sexual violence, where to seek help, and how to report.



O'Connor, J. O., McMahon, S., Cusano, J., Seabrook, R., & Gracey, L. (2021). Predictors of campus sexual violence perpetration: A systematic review of research, sampling, and study design. Aggression and Violent Behavior, 58, 101607. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.avb.2021.101607 
 
This systematic review of research on campus sexual violence perpetration in the U.S. looked at 28 studies published between 2001 and 2019. The purpose of the review was to identify predictive variables for campus sexual violence perpetration, examine sampling methods, and examine study design. Personality factors, life experiences, and substance use were the most common variables studied, but only 11 studies explored variables beyond the individual level, such as institutional factors and peer influences. Sample sizes varied considerably, and almost all studies used convenience or census sampling methods. Almost 80% of studies drew data from samples that were majority (75% or more) white or Caucasian, and only a few identified respondent sexual orientation or age. Most of the studies were cross-sectional and observational, and almost all used a version of the Sexual Experiences Survey (SES) to measure perpetrator behavior. The authors conclude with a discussion of implications for sexual violence prevention on campuses, particularly among men.



Spencer, C. M., Rivas-Koehl, M., Astle, S., Toews, M. L., McAlister, P., & Anders, K. M. (2024). Factors correlated with sexual assault victimization among college students in the United States: A meta-analysis. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 25(1), 246–259. https://10.1177/15248380221146800 
 
This meta-analysis of research on campus sexual assault sought to identify factors associated with sexual assault victimization, and to uncover any differences in correlates for victimization among male and female students. The analysis reviewed 118 studies on campus sexual assault victimization in the U.S., most of which drew data from majority white samples (91 studies) and examined female victims specifically (76 studies). The strongest correlates of sexual assault victimization were physical intimate partner violence perpetration, physical intimate partner violence victimization, emotional intimate partner violence victimization, and previous sexual assault victimization. Feelings of hopelessness, suicidal ideation, trauma-related symptoms, anxiety symptoms, disordered eating, high-risk sexual behavior, and identifying as female were also strongly correlated with sexual assault victimization. The article explores the implications of these findings for policy and future research.



Education/Awareness Raising:

Kan, M. L., Scaglione, N. M., Buben, A., Morgan, J. K., Grimes, K. E., Watson, C. J., Charm, S., Lowe, A. N., Eckhoff, R. P., Lane, M., Root, M. K., & Pound, L. B. (2024). Feasibility and acceptability of tailored sexual assault prevention in the US Air Force. Pilot and Feasibility Studies, 10, 145. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40814-024-01565-6 
 
This article documents the results of a feasibility study of the Sexual Communication and Consent (SCC) program for the U.S. Air Force's Basic Military Training. A three-phase feasibility study, conducted over 26 weeks, involved offering the SCC to 9,194 Air Force trainees (73% male, 90% heterosexual). Programming for participants included content on healthy relationships, consent, sexual revictimization risk reduction, and primary prevention of sexual violence. The study found that the SCC program was feasible, with high fidelity upon implementation, but that program content should be reduced and streamlined.



Rizzo, A. J., Orr, N., Shaw, N., Farmer, C., Chollet, A., Young, H., Berry, V., Rigby, E., Hagell, A., Bonell, C., & Melendez-Torres, G. J. (2022). Exploring the activities and target audiences of school-based violence prevention programs: Systematic review and intervention component analysis. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 24(5), 3593-3614. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380221134294 
 
This article explores school-based programs intended to prevent dating and relationship violence (DRV) and gender-based violence (GBV) around the globe, in an attempt to identify effective program components. The analysis looked at 68 studies documenting 76 school-based intervention programs (63% conducted in North America) that partially or entirely focused on DRV and GBV prevention. Studies drew data from a wide range of sample sizes, and programs were delivered mostly to youth ages 11-18. After identifying 40 components across 13 activity categories, the analysis found that single-gender activities, diary-keeping, and interventions using comics, cartoons, or pictures alongside other components had the highest rates of DRV/GBV reduction. Meanwhile, activities for parents and other family members had the lowest rates. Interventions using guided practice and preparation activities were ineffectual except when paired with single-gender activities or family educational materials.



Russell, D. H., Trew, S., Harris, L., Dickson, J., Walsh, K., Higgins, D. J., & Smith, R. (2024). Engaging parents in child-focused child sexual abuse prevention education strategies: A systematic review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 25(4), 3082–3098. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380241235 895 
 
This literature review sought to understand reasons why child-focused sexual abuse prevention programs seek parental involvement. The review analyzed 50 empirical studies and 7 program descriptions, published between 1984 and 2021, with the majority originating from the U.S. or Canada. Common rationales for involving parents included reinforcing children's learning at home, encouraging parent-child communication about sexual abuse prevention, enhancing parental capacity to respond appropriately to children's sexual abuse disclosures, supporting program delivery, and monitoring parental attitudes toward school prevention programs. The review explores types of parental involvement, facilitators of parental involvement, and barriers to parental involvement in prevention programming. The authors conclude with the implications of these findings for future child sexual abuse prevention programming, prevention policies, and future research.



Culturally Specific Communities:

Lim, S., Park, O., Mohaimin, S., Lee, C., Lee, S., Chauhan, D., Roberts, T., Ali, S. H., & Trinh-Shevrin, C. (2022). Non-partner sexual violence among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander adults: A scoping review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 24(3), 181-1831. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380221082088 
 
This scoping review explored research on non-partner sexual violence against Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) victims. A total of 38 studies, most of which were conducted in the U.S., documented the prevalence of sexual assault among AANHPI persons, their rates of victimization compared to other racial/ethnic groups, risk factors, help-seeking, health outcomes, and attitudes toward sexual violence. The authors concluded that AANHPIs are understudied groups with regard to non-partner sexual victimization, with multiple gaps in available literature necessitating further research. 




Petrosky, E., Kollar, L. M., Kearns, M. C., Smith, S. G., Betz, C. J., Fowler, K. A., & Satter, D. E. (2021). Homicides of American Indians/Alaska natives – National Violent Death Reporting System, United States, 2003-2018. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 70(8), 1–19. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/ss/pdfs/ss7008a1-H.pdf    
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This article analyzes data on homicides involving American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) victims gathered by the CDC's National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS). An analysis of 2,226 homicides from 2003-2018 involving AI/AN victims in 34 states and the District of Columbia found that the age-adjusted homicide rate for AI/AN persons was 8 per 100,000 people. Another crime precipitated almost one quarter (24.6%) of homicides (the homicide occurred as a result of another serious crime) , and a crime was in progress at the time of the fatal injury in two-thirds of homicides. Among AI/AN women, the most common crimes precipitating homicide were assault or homicide (35.8%) and rape or sexual assault (25.7%). Homicides involving female victims were more likely than those with male victims to involve intimate partner violence (45% versus 12.1%). The article discusses characteristics of homicide victims and suspects, the circumstances of homicides related to intimate partner violence, cultural and legal dimensions of homicide against AI/AN victims, and the implications of NVDRS data for violent prevention.



Phelan, K. (2023). Understanding the effects of sexual victimization on substance use among American Indian youth: Exploring the moderating effects of cultural identity. Journal of Crime and Criminal Behavior, 3(2), 353-382.   

This study examined the relationship between sexual assault victimization and alcohol and marijuana use among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth who attended school in or near reservations in the U.S. The sample for this study consists of AI/AN youth who participated in the Drug Use Among Young American Indians: Epidemiology and Prediction, 1993-2006 and 2009-2013 study. Sexual assault victimization was positively associated with being female, feelings of anger, depression, early initiation of marijuana use, and alcohol and marijuana use in the previous 30 days. The authors discuss the possible reasons behind these correlations and the need for future research in risk and protective factors associated with AI/AN identity.



Ullman, S. E., Lorenz, K. (2020). Correlates of African American sexual assault survivors' medical care seeking. Women & Health, 60(5), 502-516. https://doi.org/10.1080/03630242.2019.1671947 
 
This study investigated correlations between medical care seeking, demographic characteristics, sexual assault characteristics, and psychosocial factors among African American women who had experienced sexual assault. Data was gleaned from a survey of 836 African American women (ages 18-71) in the Chicago metropolitan area who had experienced sexual assault at or after the age of 14. Older age, lower income, delayed disclosure, and life threat were correlated with less medical care seeking immediately after the assault and after time had passed. Sexual assault by a stranger, experiencing additional interpersonal traumas, and greater support from disclosure recipients were correlated with more medical care seeking, both immediately after the assault and after time had passed. The authors speculate on reasons for these correlations and discuss their implications for tailoring treatment and prevention efforts for African Americans.


Minors:
Baird, K., & Connolly, J. (2023). Recruitment and entrapment pathways of minors into sex trafficking in Canada and the United States: A systematic review.  Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 24(1), 189-202. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380211025241
 
This literature review sought to synthesize research on recruitment strategies used to recruit domestic minors by sex traffickers in the U.S. and Canada. The review examined 23 studies on sex trafficking recruitment published between 1990 and 2020, which drew data from persons trafficked as minors, self-identified pimps, and stakeholders. The article discusses the review's findings on common characteristics of traffickers, risk factors for trafficking among youth, locations for recruitment, relational and aversive tactics used by traffickers to bring minors into the sex trade, and the enmeshment process used by traffickers to retain control over trafficking victims. The authors discuss the implications of these findings for youth prevention education, intervention, and future research.



Dolson, R. A., Morelen, D. M., Dodd, J. C., & Clements, A. D. (2021). Pocket ACE: Child sexual abuse survivors missed by the ACEs Study Questionnaire. Child Abuse & Neglect, 117, 105049. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105049
 
This study sought to determine whether the 5-year age modifier in the ACEs Study Questionnaire (ACE-SQ) childhood sexual abuse item missed certain victims of child sexual abuse (CSA). An international sample of 974 women (ages 18-50) completed an online survey in which sexual abuse history was measured using both the ACE-SQ item and a different version of the item with no five-year age modifier. One quarter of respondents indicated that they had experienced CSA, and of these respondents, 131 were victimized by a perpetrator 5 years or older than them, while 118 were victimized by a perpetrator less than 5 years older than them. Members of both groups exhibited similar rates of depression, somatic symptoms, and poor subjective health. The authors argue that the 5-year modifier in ACE sexual abuse assessments may obscure patients’ true ACE score and recommend removing the modifier.



Langevin, R., Marshall, C., Wallace, A., Gagne, M., Kingsland, E., & Temcheff, C. (2021). Disentangling the associations between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and child sexual abuse: A systematic review. Trauma, Violence & Abuse, 24(2), 369-389. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380211030234 
 
This literature review explored research on the relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and childhood sexual victimization. The authors reviewed 28 scholarly articles published between 1985 and 2019 on the correlation between ADHD and child sexual abuse using both adult and minor samples. Most of the studies found a significant association between childhood sexual abuse and ADHD or ADHD symptoms, but the directionality of the association was unclear due to a lack of longitudinal studies. However, the methodological rigor of the studies varied, and more rigorous studies are needed to understand how other forms of maltreatment and trauma symptoms relate to ADHD and sexual abuse.



Rezey, M. L., & DiMeglio, M. (2024). What is known about the magnitude, trend, and risk for child sexual abuse and the commercial sexual exploitation of children in the United States? Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 33(6), 691-713. https://doi.org/10.1080/10538712.2024.2329622 
 
This study analyzes data on the incidence and risk for child sexual abuse (CSA) and commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC), drawn from both official agency surveys (i.e., the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS)) and other nationally representative surveys (i.e., the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), and the  York Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)). CSA and CSEC rates and trends varied considerably across different data sources. However, data generally confirms that CSA rates have declined over the past decades, and that CSEC has increased, although CSA is a more common victimization experience than CSEC. The article discusses individual, household/family, and community-level risk factors for CSA and CSEC victimization, as well as future research needs on the overlap between CSA and CSEC.


Intimate Partner Sexual Violence:

Dunn, H. K., Pearlman, D. N., Montgomery, M. C., & Orchowski, L. M. (2022). Predictors of sexual intimate partner violence perpetration among men: A prospective analysis. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 37(13-14), NP11161–NP11179. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260521989735 
 
This longitudinal study examined the relationship between perceived adolescent peer approval over sex, adolescent, alcohol consumption, and later intimate partner sexual violence perpetration among young men. Out of a sample of 1,189 male respondents from Waves I and III of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health), 6.13% indicated that they had ever perpetrated sexual intimate partner violence (IPSV). IPSV perpetration was positively correlated with a self-reported history of heavy alcohol use as adolescents at Wave I. Respondents who agreed that their peers would approve of them for having sex at Wave I were also more likely to report IPSV perpetration at Wave III. The authors discuss these findings as they relate to traditional masculine social norms, and the implications of social norms programming for sexual assault prevention.



Melton, H. C. (2024). Research on intimate partner sexual assault using previously unsubmitted sexual assault kits. Women & Criminal Justice, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1080/08974454.2024.2331808    
 
This study sought to identify characteristics of forensic evidence kits associated with intimate partner sexual assault cases, and to contrast these to characteristics of stranger sexual assault kits. Out of a sample of 1,411 previously unsubmitted sexual assault kits identified through the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative in Salt Lake County, Utah, 278 cases involved intimate partners or former intimate partners. When compared against 376 cases/kits involving stranger sexual assault, intimate partner sexual assault cases were more likely than stranger cases to have taken place in the victim's or suspect's home, to have involved strangulation of victim, and to have involved injuries other than genital trauma. Stranger cases were more likely to have involved victim substance use, to have involved suspected adulteration of alcohol or drugs, and to have taken place in a third-party home, vehicle, hotel/motel, or outdoor location. Stranger cases were more likely than intimate partner sexual assault cases to have been inactivated or closed, while intimate partner sexual assault cases were more likely to have resulted in charges filed. The article discusses linkages between intimate partner sexual assault and other forms of intimate partner violence, as well as opportunities for sexual assault first responders to screen for and provide intervention for intimate partner violence.



Wright, E. N., Anderson, J., Phillips, K., & Miyamoto, S. (2022). Help-seeking and barriers to care in intimate partner sexual violence: A systematic review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 23(5), 1510–1528. https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838021998305 
 
This systematic review explored research on help-seeking behaviors and barriers to care among victims of intimate partner sexual assault (IPSV). Using 13 quantitative studies and 4 qualitative studies from the U.S. published between 2003 and 2018, the review identified help-seeking patterns and barriers among victims. Victims of IPSV were more likely than victims of non-sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) to use formal (legal, medical, and social service) support services, but less likely to engage in informal help-seeking. Formal and informal help-seeking were correlated with decreased risk of future IPSV. Familial and cultural factors could delay disclosure and negatively impact help-seeking. IPSV victims with disabilities and victims residing in rural areas often encountered unique barriers to disclosure and services. The article delved into the interpersonal and service implications of these findings, the need for greater diversity in IPSV research samples, and implications for practice and policy.


Military: 

Eliezer, D., Hilbert, A. J., Davis, L. H., Hylton, K., Klausberg, W. X., Hurley, M. M., Gitlin, Z. J., Dyches, K. D., & Galbreath, N. W. (2020). Sexual assault experiences vary for active duty military women depending on their relationship to the perpetrator. Journal of Family Violence, 35, 325–338. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-019-00085-9 
 
This article delves into the prevalence of intimate partner sexual assault among U.S. military women, and how their experiences differ from victims of other perpetrator types. This study drew data from a sample of 1,230 active duty women who responded to the 2016 Workplace and Gender Relations Survey of Active Duty Members, and who indicated that they had experienced sexual assault in the previous 12 months. Women assaulted by intimate partners were more likely to have experienced penetrative assault than women assaulted by strangers or unspecified perpetrators. Most victims of intimate partner sexual assault reported experiencing multiple sexual assaults in the past year, in contrast to victims of other perpetrator types. Intimate partner sexual assault was correlated with experiencing prior lifetime sexual assault, experiencing sexual harassment before and after the incident, and experiencing stalking before and after the incident. Victims of intimate partner sexual assault who formally reported their victimization were less likely than other victims to express satisfaction with leadership and advocate response. The authors explore the implications for sexual violence prevention and response in the military.



Gross, G. M., Ronzitti, S., Combellick, J. L., Decker, S. E., Mattocks, K. M., Hoff, R. A., Haskell, S. G., Brandt, C. A., & Goulet, J. L. (2020). Sex differences in military sexual trauma and severe self-directed violence. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 58(5), 675-682. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2019.12.0 06 
 
This article, using data from the Women Veterans Cohort Study, documents associations between military sexual trauma (MST), psychiatric comorbidities, and nonfatal self-directed violence among U.S. veterans. Out of a sample of 750,176 U.S. veterans enrolled in care with the Veterans Health Administration from 2001-2014, 21.33% of women and 1.63% of men indicated that they had experienced MST. Military sexual trauma was significantly correlated with multiple psychiatric comorbidities (i.e., depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD). Veterans who had experienced MST were more likely than veterans who had not to have engaged in self-directed violence. The article discusses possible mechanisms driving self-directed violence among MST survivors and its implications for healthcare practice.



Yancey, J. R., Carson, C. N., McGlade, E. C., & Yurgelun-Todd, D. A. (2024). A literature review of mental health symptom outcomes in U.S. veterans and servicemembers following combat exposure and military sexual trauma. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 25(2), 1431–1447. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380231178764 
 
The purpose of this review was to compare and contrast clinical presentations of military sexual trauma (MST) and combat exposure (CE) among military servicemembers, as documented in 43 studies published between 1998 and 2022. According to the research included in the review, both MST and CE were correlated with posttraumatic stress disorder. Victims of MST were more likely to exhibit depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts, while servicemembers who had experienced CE were more likely to exhibit alcohol use problems and aggression. The article concludes with implications for research and clinical practice.


LGBTQIA+:
Bardwell, E. S., Elliott, S. A., Levine, E. C., & Goodman, K. L. (2024). LGBTQIA+ identity-related concerns of sexual assault survivors who access an anonymous online hotline. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/08862605241291913 
 
This study explored sexual orientation and gender identity concerns among LGBTQIA+ victims of sexual violence. The study draws information from 292 LGBTQIA+ persons who contacted RAINN's National Sexual Assault Online Hotline. Over half of survivors discussed identity-related blame or discrimination, as well as barriers to disclosure and help-seeking related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. A small percentage (5.1%) of survivors disclosed that their perpetrators were also LGBTQIA+, delving into the complexities of reporting the perpetrator and navigating the queer community. The article explores the implications of these findings for online sexual assault services and training.



Chen, J., Khatiwada, S., Chen, M. S., Smith, S. G., Leemis, R. W., Friar, N. W., Basile, K. C., & Kresnow, M. (2023). The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2016/2017 report on victimization by sexual identity. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/98137
 

This report analyzes 2016/2017 NISVS data on sexual violence, intimate partner violence, and stalking through the lens of sexual orientation, drawing from a nationally representative sample of 27,380 adults residing in the U.S. Bisexual women reported significantly higher rates of lifetime sexual victimization and stalking victimization compared to heterosexual and lesbian women. Both lesbian and bisexual women reported higher rates of lifetime intimate partner violence victimization than heterosexual women. Gay and bisexual men reported higher rates of lifetime sexual victimization and stalking victimization than heterosexual men. These findings indicate that gay, lesbian, and bisexual populations in the U.S. are at elevated risk of victimization, and that prevention efforts must take the experiences and needs of LGBTQ populations into consideration.


Parker, V. L., Liechty, J. M., & Cantoni, N. P. (2024). Associations between trauma and health behaviors and outcomes among sexual minoritized adults: A scoping review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 25(4), 2972–2985. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380241233270 
 
This scoping review explores research on the connections between trauma and health among sexual minority adults, drawing from 18 studies published between 2004 and 2020. Research demonstrated correlations between a history of traumatic experiences (including but not limited to sexual victimization) among sexual minority adults and multiple negative health behaviors, including tobacco use, alcohol use and abuse, and sexual risk behaviors. A history of traumatic experiences was also correlated with cardiometabolic risks, diabetes, HIV or risk behaviors for HIV infection, and general poor health.


Survivors with Disabilities:

Bowman, E., Kobek, C. M., Pezzarossi, K., & Crowe, T. (2024). Deaf populations and human trafficking: Risk and protective factors for consideration. Journal of Human Trafficking, 11(1), 73-89. https://doi.org/10.1080/23322705.2024.2426936 
 
This literature review explores the state of knowledge regarding Deaf victims of human trafficking, drawing data from 69 articles and reports published after the passage of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. The authors found that persons with disabilities, including but not limited to Deaf persons, experienced higher rates of trafficking victimization than people without disabilities. Prior sexual assault, child abuse, intrafamilial abuse, and intimate partner violence victimization were correlated with higher risk of trafficking victimization, with implications for Deaf victims of these violence types. Other risk factors among Deaf persons, such as communication barriers, lack of awareness of endangerment, lack of education on sexual violence and trafficking, severity of disability, financial exploitation, and financial illiteracy, placed them at elevated risk of trafficking victimization. The literature review identified protective factors for Deaf persons and discussed prevention, intervention, and aftercare strategies for Deaf populations.



Hayes, B. E., Daigle, L. E., & Muñoz, R. B. (2024). Sexual victimization of autistic college students. Psychology of Violence, 14(3), 174–183. https://doi.org/10.1037/vio0000509 
 
This study explores the correlation between autism and sexual victimization among a national sample of U.S. college students. The spring 2021 administration of the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment III (ACHA-NCHA III) found that out of 88,608 college students at 137 U.S. schools, 1,260 respondents indicated that they had autism. Autistic respondents were slightly more likely than non-autistic respondents to indicate that they had experienced attempted or completed rape, nonconsensual sexual contact, and sexual harassment in the previous 12 months. The study explores other factors associated with a higher risk of sexual victimization vis-a-vis autism, including disability, race, sexual orientation, and binge drinking.



Hammarlund, M., Granqvist, P., & Forslund, T. (2023). Experiences of interpersonal trauma among parents with intellectual disabilities: A systematic review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 24(4), 2843–2862. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380221119237 
 
This review examines research on correlations between interpersonal trauma, negative mental health outcomes, and negative parenting outcomes among adults with intellectual disabilities. A review of 20 studies published between 1983 and 2021 on interpersonal traumatic experiences among parents with intellectual disabilities found wide variation in sample size, operational definition of intellectual disability, and assessment of interpersonal trauma. Various studies found that sizeable percentages of subjects with intellectual disabilities had experienced sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and childhood separation from caregivers. Interpersonal trauma was associated with negative mental health outcomes and negative caregiving outcomes in several studies, but small sample sizes and methodological concerns mean that these connections are tentative. Studies disagreed about the association between trauma and negative child developmental outcomes. Additionally, rigorous research is needed on traumatic experiences and parenting outcomes among persons with intellectual disabilities.


Male Survivors:  

Smith, S. G., Chen, J., Lowe, A. N., & Basile, K. C. (2022). Sexual violence victimization of U.S. males: Negative health conditions associated with rape and being made to penetrate. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 37(21-22), NP20953–NP20971. https://doi.org/10.1177/08862605211055151 
 
This study investigates correlations between two types of lifetime sexual assault -- rape and being forced to penetrate -- and health problems among a national sample of U.S. men. Among men who participated in the 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, 0.9% indicated that they experienced rape, 5.5% experienced being made to penetrate (MTP) someone unwillingly, and 0.7% experienced both rape and MTP. Men who experienced rape were more likely than men who had not to experience activity limitations and a need for special equipment (i.e., wheelchair, cane, special bed, etc.). Men who experienced MTP were more likely than men who had not to experience frequent headaches, chronic pain, sleeping difficulties, activity limitations, poor mental health, and a need for special equipment.



Sutton, T. E., Thomas, R., Wheeler, L. A., Bryson, G. D., Ababio, M. N., Shorey, R. C., Hopfauf, S., Angelino, R., & Edwards, K. M. (2024). Childhood sexual abuse & sexual revictimization among sexual minority men. Journal of Child Sexual Abuse. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/10538712.2024.2403984
 
This study sought to uncover the prevalence of childhood sexual abuse, adult sexual victimization, and sexual revictimization among a multi-state, racially and gender diverse sample of sexual minority men. The study utilized data from the 2,859 sexual minority men (ages 18-30) who participated in the Strong, Thriving, and Resilient Men (STAR-M) project. Approximately half of respondents indicated that they experienced some form of sexual violence, and 10.5% indicated that they had experienced both childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual victimization. High exposure to discrimination, internalized homonegativity, and LGBTQIA2S+ authenticity were correlated with adult victimization.



Walfield, S. M., McCormack, P. D., & Clarke, K. (2022). Understanding case outcomes for male victims of forcible sexual assaults. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 37(9-10), NP6929–NP6957. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260520967154 
 
This study explored the impact of victim, perpetrator, and incident characteristics on the outcome of sexual assault cases involving male victims. Using 2007-2016 data from the National Incident-based Reporting System (NIBRS), the study examined case outcomes for 20,701 male victims of sexual assault (age 14 and older) who reported their victimization to law enforcement. Two-thirds (65.7%) of cases remained open, and 13% ended in exceptional clearance by prosecutor or victim, with only 21.2% resulting in arrest. Concomitant crimes significantly increased the likelihood of arrest. Cases involving adult offenders and juvenile victims, as well as cases involving strangers, were more likely to end in arrest. Cases involving female offenders, and cases involving family members, were more likely to remain open. Cases involving intimate partners had a higher likelihood of being exceptionally cleared.



Drugs/Alcohol:
Basile, K. C., Smith, S. G., Liu, Y., Lowe, A., Gilmore, A. K., Khatiwada, S., & Kresnow, M. (2021). Victim and perpetrator characteristics in alcohol/drug-involved sexual violence victimization in the U.S. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 226, 108839. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108839 
 
This article uses data from the 2010-2012 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey to gauge the prevalence and characteristics of alcohol- and drug-facilitated sexual assault. The authors present NISVS data on rates of victim and perpetrator alcohol/drug use in instances of physically forced rape and instances of being forced to penetrate. Additionally, the article explores the frequency of voluntary versus involuntary use of substances by victims, as well as rates of substance use among perpetrator by perpetrator type.



Recalde-Esnoz, I., Prego-Meleiro, P., Montalvo, G., del Castillo, H. (2024). Drug-facilitated sexual assault: A systematic review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 25(3), 1814-1825. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380231195877

This literature review assessed 19 peer-reviewed scholarly articles on drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) published in English and Spanish between 2003-2021. The review looked at findings on DFSA prevalence, drugs used to facilitate sexual violence, victim characteristics, perpetrator characteristics, and the situational contexts in which DFSA occurred. Most of the reviewed studies found that the majority of assailants were men, the majority of victims were women under the age of 30, alcohol was the most commonly used psychoactive substance in DFSA cases, and that most instances of DFSA occurred in private spaces such as a perpetrator's home. Determining the prevalence of DFSA was hampered by a lack of a standard definition for DFSA across studies, as well as a lack of sociodemographic and epidemiological data that could augment victim self-reports.



St. Vil, N. M., Haley, D. F., Montgomery, B., Williams, M., Watson, L., Zhang, S., & Wingood, G. M. (2024). An exploration of geographic access to substance use treatment programs and violence against women. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 39(23-24), 5033-5055. https://doi.org/10.1177/08862605241246000 
 
This article probes the relationship between physical, emotional, and sexual violence against women and women's access to substance use treatment programs. The HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 064 Women's HIV SeroIncident Study drew data from a sample of 1,910 women (ages 18-44) residing in ten communities in the eastern U.S. with high rates of HIV and poverty. Respondents who used substances were more likely to have experienced physical, emotional, and sexual violence. Geographic access to drug and alcohol treatment was inversely associated with physical and emotional abuse victimization, but not sexual victimization, in the past 6 months.


Workplace: 

Blindow, K. J., Cedstrand, E., Elling, D. L., Hagland, M., & Bodin, T. (2024). Gender-based violence and harassment at work and health and occupational outcomes. A systematic review of prospective studies. BMC Public Health, 24, 1788. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-19304-0 
 
This systematic review of research sought to uncover the relationship between gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) in the workplace, victim health, and victim occupational outcomes. The review included 29 studies on workplace GBHV published between 2000 and 2023, the majority of which were conducted in the U.S. or northern Europe. Workplace GBVH victimization was correlated with hypertension, substance use, and several negative mental health outcomes. Research did not show a consistent association between workplace GBVH and sickness absence. Several studies in the analysis suggested a correlation between workplace GHVH, financial stress, and turnover, but the studies were too few and varied to conclude this definitively.



Lall, M. D., Bilimoria, K. Y., Lu, D. W., Zhan, T., Barton, M. A., Hu, Y., Beeson, M. S., Adams, J. G., Nelson, L. S., & Baren, J. M. (2021). Prevalence of discrimination, abuse, and harassment in emergency medicine residency training in the U.S. JAMA Network Open, 4(8), e2121706. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.21706 
 
This study sought to measure the prevalence of workplace mistreatment, including but not limited to sexual harassment, among emergency medicine (EM) residents across the U.S. The study drew data from a sample of 7,680 EM residents accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education who participated in the 2020 American Board of Emergency Medicine examination. Almost half of respondents (45.1%) indicated that they experienced some form of workplace mistreatment, such as sexual harassment, verbal or emotional abuse, physical abuse, or discrimination. Women were more likely than men to report experiencing most types of mistreatment overall, with the exception of physical abuse and discrimination based on sexual orientation. The analysis breaks down sources of mistreatment by mistreatment type, and the relationship between mistreatment victimization and suicidal thoughts among EM residents.



Taylor, B. G., Maitra, P., Mumford, E., & Liu, W. (2022). Sexual harassment of law enforcement officers: Findings from a nationally representative survey. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 37(11-12), NP8454–NP8478. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260520978180 
 
This article used data from the LEO Safety and Wellness (OSAW) study, a nationally representative survey of U.S. law enforcement professionals, to uncover the prevalence of sexual harassment and assault among law enforcement officers. Out of a sample of 2,867 law enforcement officers, 44.2% indicated that they had experienced non-physical sexual harassment, and 3% indicated that they experienced physical sexual harassment or assault. Female officers reported higher rates of non-physical and physical harassment and assault than male officers. Longer time in law enforcement and higher perceived stress were correlated with higher risk of non-physical sexual harassment. Childhood sexual abuse was correlated with a higher risk of sexual assault among women, while higher perceived stress and non-white race were correlated with a higher risk of sexual assault among men.


Online:

Álvarez-Guerrero, G., Fry, D., Lu, M., & Gaitis, K. K. (2024). Online child sexual exploitation and abuse of children and adolescents with disabilities: A systematic review. Disabilities, 4, 264–276. https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities4020017 
 
This systematic review examined 13 studies to determine the prevalence of and risk factors associated with online child sexual exploitation and abuse (OCSEA) of minors with disabilities. The 13 studies included in the analysis were published between 1993 and 2023 and researched minors with physical, sensory, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. The analysis identified online settings where perpetrators and victims came into contact, tactics employed by perpetrators to manipulate or coerce victims, risk factors for OCSEA among disabled minors, and negative psychological sequelae of OCSEA among victims. The authors discuss how this information can inform OCSEA prevention programming and future research.



Price, S., McKillop, N., Scanlan, J., Rayment-McHugh, S., Christensen, L., & Prichard, J. (2024). A review of digital interventions as secondary prevention measures to combat online child sexual abuse perpetration. Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 33(7), 869-890. https://doi.org/10.1080/10538712.2024.2415549 
 
This review sought to understand the scope of online interventions intended to prevent, or intervene early in, the perpetration of online child sexual abuse. The authors found 6 studies published between 2020 and 2024 on interventions targeting would-be consumption of child sexual abuse material, image-based abuse, and grooming and solicitation. Most interventions utilized warning messages and/or chatbots. The studies found that targeted warning messages were effective at deterring would-be perpetrators from committing sex offenses online, as were interventions that increased would-be perpetrators' perception of risk. However, the small number of studies and situational contexts made it difficult to draw broad conclusions about the initiatives' applicability. The authors argued for the importance of future research on digital interventions so as to create a wider evidence base for digital prevention efforts.



Reichel, R., Daser, A., Gnielka, F. M., Schmidt, A. F., Blockland, A., & Lehmann, R. J. (2024). A review of risk factors for online and mixed child sexual abuse material offending: What is being researched. Journal of Sexual Aggression. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/13552600.2024.2418100 
 
This literature review sought to identify research trends on risk factors associated with online child sexual abuse material (CSAM) offending. The authors reviewed 43 quantitative and mixed-methods studies published between 2011 and 2023 and conducted mostly in the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom. The review identified 12 categories and 75 subcategories of risk factors examined in the 43 studies, including but not limited to sociodemographic variables, childhood experiences, criminal history, paraphilic interests, and offense-supportive cognitions. The article discusses the importance of contextualizing these categories in CSAM-specific theories and behavioral models.


Health and Healthcare:

Addington, L. A. (2021). Prevalence of reproductive coercion among male and female emerging adults. Violence and Gender, 8(2), 1-3. https://doi.org/10.1089/vio.2020.0038 
 
This article uses 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) data to determine the prevalence of reproductive coercion among a nationally representative sample of adults ages 18-25. Out of a subsample of 2,104 NISVS participants ages 18-25, 6.5% of women and 3.2% of men indicated that they had experienced reproductive coercion in the past 12 months. Experiencing reproductive coercion was correlated with experiencing psychological aggression in the past 12 months.



D’Angelo, D. V., Liu, Y., Basile, K. C., Smith, S. G., Chen, J., Friar, N. W., & Stevens, M. (2023). Rape and sexual coercion related pregnancy in the United States. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 66(3), 389-398. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2023.11.001 
 
This article used data from the 2016/2017 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) to determine the prevalence and demographic characteristics of rape-related and sexual coercion-related pregnancy in the U.S. Out of a nationally representative sample of 15,152 women residing in the U.S., 4.8% of women experienced a pregnancy due to rape or sexual coercion at some point in their lives. Non-Hispanic multiracial women had the highest prevalence of either pregnancy type (12.2%) compared to women of other racial and ethnic groups. The article discusses the interplay of rape-related pregnancy with other forms of violence and structural inequality, the health implications of such pregnancies, and the implications of these findings for public health efforts.



Espinoza, L. E., Espinoza, L. E., Diosdado, L., Nguyen-Finn, K., & Talleff, J. F. (2024). The role of Hispanic women's marital status on intimate partner violence and reproductive coercion resulting in unintended pregnancy. Journal of Interpersonal Violence. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/08862605241303956 
 
This study looks at the interplay of intimate partner violence (IPV), reproductive coercion, unintended pregnancy, and marital status among Hispanic women residing in the U.S. Data for the study came from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), a U.S. dataset which monitors maternal behaviors before, during, and after pregnancy as they relate to neonatal health outcomes. The study examined data from the 2018 to 2020 PRAMS dataset on a multi-state sample of 3,725 Hispanic women who had given birth within the previous 9 months. Women who had unintended pregnancies were slightly more likely than women with intended pregnancies to have experienced IPV before or during pregnancy. Women with unintended pregnancies reported similar rates of reproductive coercion compared to women with intended pregnancies (9.9% versus 12.8%). Among both married and unmarried women, IPV before pregnancy was correlated with unintended pregnancy. Reproductive coercion was associated with a lower likelihood of unintended pregnancy among married women, but not among unmarried women.



Wang, M. J., Khodadadi, A. B., Turan, J. M., & White, K. (2021). Scoping review of access to emergency contraception for sexual assault victims in emergency departments in the United States. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 22(2), 413-421. https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838019882023 
 
This scoping review sought to assess how frequently hospital emergency departments were providing emergency contraception to sexual assault victims, as well as what policies and practices were in place at U.S. hospitals related to emergency contraception. The authors analyzed 14 studies published between 2000 and 2013 on the use of emergency contraception in U.S. emergency departments following rape and sexual assault. The studies documented considerable variability in the number of hospitals that offer emergency contraception to victims, that provide emergency contraception counseling, that have formal emergency contraception policies, and that had specialty staff such as sexual assault nurse examiners. The article attributed some of this variability to the year of the studies, differences in state policies, and differences in protocols at religious hospitals. The author highlights the need for additional research that captures the current state of emergency contraception access and policies in the U.S.


Advocacy/Service Provision:
Klein, L. B., Brewer, N. Q., Cloy, C., Lovern, H., Bangen, M., McLean, K., Voth Schrag, R., & Wood, L. (2023). Campus interpersonal violence survivor advocacy services. Journal of American College Health, 73(1), 177-186. https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2023.2209188 
 
This study documents the practices and policies of campus advocacy services devoted to victims of sexual violence, intimate partner violence, sexual harassment, and stalking. Professionals in interpersonal violence advocacy services from 155 U.S. institutions of higher education completed a survey on campus advocacy services. Participants provided details on advocacy services, program structure and protocols, partnerships with community organizations, and funding.



Walsh, W. A., Cross, T. P., & Casey, E. (2024). Caregiver feedback on services in children's advocacy centers: How does it differ by caregiver language and child race-ethnicity, gender and age? Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 33(7), 911-930. https://doi.org/10.1080/10538712.2024.2428279
 
This study investigated whether child gender, race, ethnicity, and caregiver language were correlated with service referral for children served by children's advocacy centers and their caregivers. The authors analyzed National Children's Alliance Follow-Up Caregiver Survey responses from 1,585 caregivers of children served by 260 children's advocacy centers across the U.S. While most caregivers (84.4%) received referral information for services for their children, caregivers of Hispanic and non-Hispanic white children were more likely to receive referral information than caregivers of non-Hispanic black or multiracial children. Caregivers of adolescents were slightly more likely to receive referral information than caregivers of children age 12 and younger. Spanish-speaking caregivers were significantly more likely than English-speaking caregivers to receive service information for themselves. Child gender was not significantly correlated with referrals. The article discusses patterns in service usage, desire for additional services, and desire for additional assistance from staff.



Wegrzyn, A., Tull, P., Greeson, M. R., Pierre-Louis, C., Patton, E., & Shaw, J. (2022). Rape crisis victim advocacy: A systematic review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 24(3), 1966-1985.  https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380221082089 
 
This literature review delved into U.S. rape crisis center advocacy service provision, barriers and facilitators of effective service provision, and advocates' perceptions of their advocacy efforts. Drawing from 45 studies on rape crisis center services published between 1989 and 2018, this review looked at the state of rape crisis center services, outlined future research needs, and described implications for policies and practices in the field.


Public Spaces:

DelGreco, M., Hubbard, A. S., & Denes, A. (2020). Communicating by catcalling: Power dynamics and communicative motivations in street harassment. Violence Against Women, 27(9), 1402–1426. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077801220927085 
 
This study sought to uncover the extent to which men report engaging in street harassment toward women, as well as men's motivations for engaging in street harassment. The study also explored the extent to which women use counter control attempts in situations of street harassment perpetrated by men, and how men's perceptions of their power vis-a-vis women affects their willingness to engage in street harassment behaviors toward women. Using a sample of 348 adult undergraduate students (205 women and 143 men) attending a university in the Pacific U.S., the study found that 78% of male respondents reported engaging in street harassment behaviors, and that 87% of those did so in order to change the target's behavior. Men who felt that they had lower power than women were more likely to indicate that they engaged in street harassment. Women's counter control attempts were not correlated with their belief in having equal or lower power than men.



Palamar, J. J., & Griffith, M. (2020). Non-consensual sexual contact at electronic dance music parties. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 49, 909-917. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-019-01568-y 
 
This study sought to identify the prevalence and correlates of non-consensual sexual contact experienced by attendees at electronic dance music (EDM) parties in New York City. Out of a sample of 1,005 adults (ages 18-40) recruited while attending EDM gatherings at nightclubs and festivals, 15.2% indicated that they had experienced non-consensual sexual contact at such a party. Women experienced higher rates of non-consensual sexual contact than men. Bisexual respondents and respondents reporting their sexuality as "other" reported higher rates of victimization than heterosexual, gay, and lesbian respondents. Almost all female victims indicated that their perpetrators were all men or mostly men, while male victims' responses regarding the sex of perpetrators was varied. Men were more likely than women to have been intoxicated during non-consensual sexual contact.



Peterson, Z. D., Carver, D. N., Klann, E. M., Gesselman, A. N., Akers, B. M., & Garcia, J. R. (2023). Sexual harassment and assault in public spaces: Individual vulnerability and contextual risk factors. Sex Roles, 89, 685–701. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11199-023-01416-3 
 
This study assessed sexual harassment and sexual assault experiences in public spaces among a multi-state sample of adults. A sample of 1,024 adults (ages 18-90) residing in 49 U.S. states were recruited electronically for a survey on experiences of sexual harassment and assault in public venues. Half of female respondents (51.3%) and almost a third of male respondents (30.3%) indicated that they had experienced some form of sexual harassment or sexual assault in a public venue in the past 5 years. Younger respondents, LGBQ+ persons, and respondents living in urban settings were more likely to indicate that they had experienced sexual harassment or sexual assault. Nightclubs and raves were the most common venues at which sexual harassment or sexual assault occurred, followed by restaurants/bars/coffee shops/cafes and public transport.



Media: 
Egen, O., Kollar, L. M., Dills, J., Basile, K. C., Besrat, B., Palumbo, L., & Carlyle, K. E. (2020). Sexual violence in the media: An exploration of traditional print media reporting in the United States, 2014-2017. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 69(47), 1757-1761. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/pdfs/mm6947a1-H.pdf 
 
This article analyzes sexual violence coverage and the use of sexual violence-related language in U.S. print news media.  This study drew data from a random sample of 2,600 articles from 48 major print media outlets distributed in the U.S. between 2014 and 2017, identified by a Boolean search for 27 sexual violence-related terms. Types of sexual violence mentioned and covered varied by region and year. National outlets were more likely than regional outlets to use terms such as "sex scandal" and "sex/intercourse", and to include calls for sexual violence prevention. Newspaper coverage in 2017 saw a significant increase in coverage of sexual harassment and sexual exploitation, as well as in the use of terms such as "sex scandal", "scandal", "accuser", and "accused". The authors speculate on the role of the MeToo movement's resurgence in fall 2017 on these trends, point out areas for improved language usage in coverage of sexual violence, and discuss the potential for media coverage of sexual violence to promote prevention messaging. 


Purtle, J., Bowler, S., Boughter-Dornfeld, M., Nelson, K. L., & Gollust, S. W. (2023). Newspaper coverage of adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress in the United States, 2014-2020: Consequences, causes, and solutions. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 24(1), 313–323. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380211029407 
 
This article explored how U.S. newspapers presented the causes of and consequences of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress. The authors conducted a quantitative analysis of the content of 746 newspaper articles on ACEs and toxic stress from 25 newspapers published between 2014 and 2020. Coverage of ACEs and/or toxic stress rose from 2014 to 2018, decreased slightly in 2019, and dramatically decreased in 2020. Most articles identified at least one ACE and/or toxic stressor, and the majority discussed at least one health-related consequence of ACEs or toxic stress. Approximately half of articles identified structural causes of ACEs and toxic stress, such as economic insecurity, but a much smaller number identified structural racism as a cause. Out of articles explicitly or implicitly about the topic, most (86.3%) discussed solutions, such as local initiatives, hospital residence training, and clinical interventions.



Rodenhizer, K. A., & Edwards, K. M. (2017). The impacts of sexual media exposure on adolescent and emerging adults' dating and sexual violence attitudes and behaviors: A critical review of the literature. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 20(4), 439-452. https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838017717745 
 
This literature review explores the impact of consumption of sexually explicit media (SEM) and sexually violent media (SVM) on sexual violence and dating violence attitudes and behaviors. The review looked at 43 studies on SEM and SVM exposure in fictional entertainment media, such as film, television, video games, and pornography. The selected studies used respondents from North America and western Europe and favored samples with a preponderance of emerging adults (ages 12-25). The selected research suggests that exposure to SEM and SVM is correlated with more accepting attitudes toward, and myths about, sexual violence and dating violence. Additionally, exposure to SEM and SVM was also associated with greater likelihood of perpetration and reduced likelihood of bystander intervention. Men's attitudes and behaviors were more strongly impacted by SEM and SVM exposure than women's. However, preexisting attitudes about sexual violence and dating violence moderate these associations.



Religion: 
(Note – this section focuses mainly on Christianity and Judaism. There is a gap in research on sexual violence in religions outside of Christianity and Judaism.) 

Cavadini, J. C., Wiggins, J. L., Gaunt, T. P., & Gray, M. M. (2019). Sexual harassment and Catholic seminary culture: The first sociological survey of seminarians. University of Notre Dame, McGrath Institute for Church Life. https://news.nd.edu/assets/335261/micl_cara_report_1_.pdf 
 
This study sought to measure sexual victimization experiences and attitudes among seminarians at Catholic seminaries and houses of formation in the U.S. Out of a multi-state sample of 1,544, 6% indicated that they had experienced sexual harassment, abuse, or misconduct while training at their current institution. Almost half of victims experienced 3 or more incidents during their training. Only half (49%) of victims reported some or all of their experiences to authorities at their institution or elsewhere. The overwhelming majority of seminarians (76%) did not think sexual harassment, abuse, and misconduct was a problem at their institution. Most respondents (85%) believed that the administration and faculty of their institution took sexual harassment, abuse, and misconduct "very seriously". The majority of respondents described themselves as "very aware" (59%) or "somewhat aware" (29%) of their institution's policies and procedures related to sexual harassment, abuse, and misconduct.


Lusky-Weisrose, E., Marmor, A., & Tener, D. (2020). Sexual abuse in the orthodox Jewish community: A literature review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 22(5), 1086–1103. https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838020906548 
 
This literature review explored 13 qualitative and quantitative studies, published between 2004 and 2018, on sexual abuse in Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities in the U.S., Canada, Israel, and Australia. According to the selected research, most sexual abuse perpetrators were male and known to the victim. Studies disagreed on gender prevalence differences among sexual abuse victims. Recurring themes among respondents included disclosure (and the role of leaders and community in the disclosure process), perceptions of and attitudes toward sexual abuse, and the psychological and religious implications of sexual abuse.



Winters, G. M., Jeglic, E. L., Terry, K. J., & Gilleran, K. (2023). Child sexual grooming by Catholic clergy: A comparison between victims allegedly abused by clergy with single versus multiple victims. Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 32(1), 91–115. https://doi.org/10.1080/10538712.2022.2163020 
 
This study sought to uncover differences in sexual grooming behaviors reported by victims of Catholic clergy who had single victims (V-SVOs) versus victims of clergy who had multiple victims (V-MVOs). The study analyzed data from a sample of 10,667 victim reports of alleged clergy child sexual abuse that occurred from 1950 to 2002 in the U.S. V-MVOs were more likely to indicate that their abusers used church-related locations, had a church-related duty, perpetrated sexual abuse during social events, provided overnight stays, enticed victims with sports, and enticed victims with alcohol or drugs than V-SVOs. V-SVOs and V-MVOs reported similar rates of various desensitization behaviors and post-abuse maintenance behaviors used by perpetrators. The article discusses the implications of these findings for understanding MVO clergy as a subgroup of offenders.


Policy: 
Anderson, L. M., Spector, J., Riley, D., Kidd, S., Wilderson, S. B., Crosby, A. C., & Laguarda, K. (2022). Study of state policies to prohibit aiding and abetting sexual misconduct in schools. U.S. Department of Education, Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. https://oese.ed.gov/files/2022/06/Study-of-State-Policies-to-Prohibit-Aiding-and-Abetting-Sexual-Misconduct-in-Schools.pdf 
 
This study assesses states' creation and implementation of laws and policies prohibiting the aiding and abetting of educator sexual misconduct, in keeping with Section 8546 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act's 2015 reauthorization. The study found that as of October 2020, all 50 states and the District of Columbia required criminal background checks for job applicants in schools, and 35 states had at least one other law or policy intended to prevent potential abusers from obtaining employment in education. Nineteen state education agencies were either developing new provisions or revising existing provisions in accordance with Section 8546. Approximately half of state education agencies indicated that they provided support and guidance meant to help school districts implement state laws and policies related to aiding and abetting educator sexual misconduct. State agencies expressed an interest in U.S. Department of Education clarification, guidance, and information sharing related to educator sexual misconduct and Section 8546.



Grant, B., Haverland, J., & Kalbfleisch. (2023). Title IX policy implementation and sexual harassment prevalence in K-12 schools. Educational Policy, 38(2), 510-547. https://doi.org/10.1177/08959048231163809 
 
This study sought to identify the prevalence of sexual harassment against students in K-12 schools, as well as school district's compliance with Title IX reporting requirements. A sample of 511 young adults residing in 35 states completed a survey on sexual harassment experiences during their K-12 education, their school districts' educational efforts and policies related to sexual harassment, and their knowledge of reporting avenues (including Title IX compliance officers). Most respondents could not identify their Title IX compliance officer, and 70% did not know how to file grievances related to sexual harassment. The absence of school district materials and policies related to sexual harassment was correlated with higher rates of sexual harassment.

This resource was made possible by Grant Numbers 90EV0563 and 90EV0562 from the Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ACF is committed to supporting the economic and social well-being of children and families. ACF programs aim to empower families, support the development of children, and encourage strong, healthy communities.
The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services. 
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