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

Abstract

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..