Condom use during sexual assault

Eryn Nicole O'Neal, Scott H. Decker, Cassia Spohn, Katharine Tellis

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

29 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study examines questions about forced unprotected sex. Study objectives include assessing the prevalence of condom use in sexual assault and improving our understanding of the correlates of condom use in sexual assault. We analyze 841 sexual assault complaints reported to three law enforcement agencies. Descriptive data are used to assess the prevalence of condom use in sexual assault and to examine the contextual factors associated with condom use in sexual assault. We conduct logistic regression analysis to examine motivations for condom use during sexual assault. Condom use prevalence rates across the sites range from 11.7% to 15.6%. Few differences exist across jurisdictions regarding the correlates of condom use. Condom use during sexual assault appears to be motivated by three contextual factors. Younger suspects and suspects who use a weapon during assaults are more likely to use a condom. The suspect 's use of alcohol is negatively related to condom use. The low rates of condom use found in this study, coupled with the dangers of unprotected sexual contact, suggest that public health efforts must address the needs of victims of sexual assault more carefully.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)605-609
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Forensic and Legal Medicine
Volume20
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2013

Keywords

  • Alcohol
  • Condoms
  • Forensic medical exams
  • Sexual assault
  • Sexually transmitted infections
  • Weapon use

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pathology and Forensic Medicine
  • Law

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