Knowledge Bank

The purpose of the following study was to understand how women-identified students who experienced sexual violence interact with campus resources available at The Ohio State University. The aims were to identify the following: the level of knowledge of campus resources among survivors, resources utilized by survivors, experiences using said resources, gaps perceived in campus resources, and recommendations for improvement. Using an exploratory cross-sectional design, 19 participants provided demographic information and qualitative data on their thoughts, experiences, and suggestions on campus resources. In-person interviews were used to elicit qualitative information that was used in an inductive themed coding process. The results of the study indicate that 1) participants have little to no knowledge of Title IX, and 2) they are familiar with Counseling and Consultation Services (CCS). Participants used a variety of resources, but overwhelmingly 3) used CCS, while 4) Title IX services were rarely used. It was found that 5) mental health services from CCS were viewed as positive and/or helpful for participants, although 6) a theme related to waiting emerged in the data (i.e., being put on a waitlist to receive services). Participants recommended 7) expanded mental health services and 8) an increased awareness of available resources. Additionally, contextual data related to their experiences provided insight into what situations and environments are creating the opportunity for sexual violence to occur. The study has implications for further research into the quality of university support services for survivors as well as measuring the effectiveness of applied interventions to increase awareness of available resources.