An Evaluation of an Acquaintance Rape Prevention Program

Abstract

The present study was designed to assess the effectiveness of a sexual assault prevention program on college students' rape-related attitudes and experiences with sexual aggression and victimization. Attitudes and sexual aggression and victimization experiences were assessed both prior to the program and 9 weeks following the program. Results suggested that program participants evidenced less rape myth acceptance at posttest than the comparison group. The program, however, did not have a significant effect on attitudes toward women, rape empathy, or rates of sexual aggression or victimization. Participants rated the program highly, although they did not find the information personally relevant. Implications of these findings for preventative efforts are discussed.