Violent and sexual victimization among American and Canadian college students: Who is more at risk and are the risk factors invariant?

Abstract

The victimization of college students is well documented. Comparative research on the extent of victimization and the risk factors for it is less prevalent. Although some cultural similarities exist, it is possible that American and Canadian college students differ in their experience of victimization. These differences have not been fully explored. To do so, we use data from the American College Health Association’s National College Health Assessment II, which assesses health and risk behaviors of college students. In 2013, this survey was also administered to Canadian college students. We find that Canadian college students have higher risks of both violent and sexual victimization, likely due to their higher levels of several risk factors. In addition, key differences in the risk factors for violent and sexual victimization emerged. These findings have implications for the development and implementation of risk reduction and prevention programs on college campuses.