Psychology ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-29-2025

Abstract

There is a paucity of research on sexual assault among Hispanic college women. Existing studies indicate that Hispanic college women report similar mental health sequelae as non-Hispanic White women following a sexual assault; thus, factors that protect or increase their risk is an area worthy of further investigation. Latino cultural values, such as familism, may serve as a protective factor for sexual assault among Hispanic college women, while acculturation with mainstream culture may function as a risk factor. This study examined whether ethnicity moderated the effects of cultural protective and risk factors on sexual assault experiences among Hispanic and non-Hispanic White college women. Participants included 210 college women who completed self-report questionnaires on cultural factors, substance use, and sexual assault history since the age of 14. Ethnicity was associated significantly with more severe sexual assault, with Hispanic women, relative to non-Hispanic White women reporting less severe victimization experiences. These findings suggest that non-Hispanic White college women, relative to Hispanic college women, may be at greater risk for more severe sexual assault.

Degree Name

Psychology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Psychology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Elizabeth Yeater

Second Committee Member

Steven Verney

Third Committee Member

Jessica Goodkind

Language

English

Keywords

culture, risk factors, protective factors, sexual assault

Document Type

Thesis

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