The University Of Utah: Campus Climate Survey On Sexual Assault And Misconduct

Salt Lake City UT

25 April, 2022

12:16 PM

Description

Press release from The University of Utah: April 22, 2022 Results from the University of Utah's fourth sexual assault climate survey show that while students' overall perceptions of campus safety and response have become more positive since 2020, perceptions of risk for sexual assault and misconduct have slightly increased. Additionally, while more students indicated they are aware of the many resources available on campus in regard to sexual assault and misconduct, most students who report experiencing violence, stalking or sexual assault/misconduct are not contacting a university official. The U conducted its first survey on sexual assault and misconduct in 2016. In 2018, 2020 and 2022, the U administered a modified version of the Association of American Universities (AAU) survey. The anonymous, confidential questionnaire gathers information about experiences with interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, sexual misconduct, domestic violence, stalking, harassment and other forms of relationship violence. Information gathered from the survey provides university leaders with insights into student experiences and trends, and helps shape services, programs and resources at the U. The 2022 survey was sent to 31,414 degree-seeking students in January 2022. About 9%, or 2,859 students, submitted responses. This response rate is comparable to a quarter of AAU institutions that participated in a similar campus climate study and indicated a response rate between 6-16%. About 64% of respondents were undergraduate students, more women responded than men and 79% of respondents reported living off campus. From 2020 to 2022, students' level of knowledge related to sexual assault and misconduct has increased, as many of those surveyed identified and remembered training about sexual assault or misconduct from orientation at the university. "We strategically focused on increasing communication about resources since the 2020 survey and are encouraged to see awareness about these support services improving, along with trust in the university's handling of safety," said Lori McDonald, vice president of Student Affairs. "However, we are still seeing that many students who reported experiencing sexual assault or misconduct did not take advantage of those resources. These important insights will help guide us as we continue working to improve student safety, well-being and success." Additional key findings from the 2022 survey include: Updated actions related to sexual assault and misconduct include: This press release was produced by The University of Utah. The views expressed here are the author's own.