Sexual Violence Against Women on College Campuses

Course overview

The number of sexual assaults among women on college campuses is now estimated at 1 in 5. The potential consequences of sexual assault include a host of individual, social, and academic problems. Individuals may exhibit symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among other conditions. They may demonstrate problems with academic performance, indulge in excessive use of alcohol or drugs, and gravitate away from friends and family. Professionals can address these concerns in a comprehensive, multilevel, and systematic way, from individual interventions to entire campus community interventions. An interprofessional approach to prevention, assessment, and intervention is essential for optimal outcomes. Collaborative university team members- such as faculty, students, student organizations, administrators, on-campus police, nurses, and physicians- offer unique skill sets to address the problem of on-campus sexual violence.