Abstract
Statement of the Problem
The purpose of this study was to contribute to the expanding body of research addressing sexual assault and violence on California State University (CSU) campuses. Sexual abuse and violence on university campuses is a well-documented and pervasive issue, affecting thousands of students annually. The researcher sought to assess sexual assault statistics for 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022 while conducting a comprehensive review of the Title IX web pages for all 23 CSU campuses. This review examines reporting procedures and the support services available to students affected by sexual assault.
Sources of Data
The researcher analyzed Clery Act reports for the years 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022 to obtain statistical data on incidents of sexual assault and violence. A comprehensive review of the Title IX webpages for each of the 23 California State Universities (CSU) institutions was also undertaken. This review focused on reviewing sexual assault and violence statistics over four years and identifying information regarding reporting procedures, services available to students who have experienced sexual assault, the presence of Title IX coordinators, and the availability of preventative training programs. The study employed a mixed-method content analysis approach, with a researcher-developed rubric and rating to facilitate the systematic categorization and dissemination of the collected data.
Conclusions Reached
The researcher ranked 20 out of the 23 California State University campuses based on a rubric that totaled sexual assault and violence statistics for the years 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022. Nine violent crimes were identified, and each CSU was ranked according to the total number of incidents across the four years, with the degree of change between 2018 and 2022 also noted. Additionally, the researcher developed a rubric to evaluate the Title IX pages of all 23 CSU campuses. This rubric included ten key topics to formulate questions regarding each university’s Title IX resources. While a few CSUs consistently earned “Very Good” ratings, most universities displayed varying scores depending on the specific question.