Exploring experiences of co-occurring sexual violence and fear of partner in an Australian university sample

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Sexual violence (SV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) are common in higher education settings. This study explored overlaps between lifetime SV and fear of partner (as a proxy for probable IPV) in a university sample and identify associations with mental health issues, sexual and reproductive health factors and risk-taking behaviours. Data were collected via a cross-sectional online survey with a representative sample of university students in Victoria, Australia. Findings suggest that a higher proportion of students who had experienced SV had also experienced fear of an intimate partner. Students who had experienced both sexual violence and fear of partner were more likely to report poor mental health, have increased risk-taking behaviours and higher risk of sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies compared with students who had experienced either form of violence alone. The higher education sector could place greater emphasis on interventions and strategies to reduce IPV, alongside SV.PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENT This study shows that university students who have experienced sexual violence are more likely to also have been afraid of an intimate partner, suggesting that for many, sexual assault may occur in the context of a relationship. Our findings also indicate that students who experience both sexual violence and fear of partner can experience worse health outcomes and engage in more risk-taking behaviours than those who experience either sexual violence or fear of partner alone. The higher education sector could place greater emphasis on sexual violence in the context of intimate relationships in primary prevention and responses.

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