Student Experiences Reporting Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct to the Title IX Office at a Public State University

Violence Against Women. 2024 May;30(6-7):1564-1585. doi: 10.1177/10778012221150274. Epub 2023 Jan 12.

Abstract

Twenty-five survivors completed anonymous surveys about reporting sexual and gender-based misconduct to their public university's Title IX office, including case characteristics, perceptions of the reporting and response process (e.g., helpfulness, respect), and experiences of institutional betrayal and support. Measures and open-ended responses described varied misconduct incidents, reporting behaviors, case outcomes, process issues, and negative process consequences. Additionally, process perceptions correlated with institutional betrayal and support. Findings illuminate how survivors' Title IX process perceptions relate to experiencing harm or support from larger institutions, and offer insights into developing a Title IX process which maintains student rights and dignity regardless of outcome.

Keywords: Title IX; reporting/disclosure; sexual assault; sexual harassment; university/college.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Sex Offenses*
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Students
  • Universities