Women’s Sexual Violence Victimization and Sexual Health: Implications for Risk Reduction

Kelly Cue Davis, Elizabeth C. Neilson, Rhiana Wegner, Cynthia A. Stappenbeck, William H. George, Jeanette Norris

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

Research consistently demonstrates that women’s experiences with sexual victimization are associated with increased sexual health risks. In this literature review, we describe the global associations between women’s sexual victimization and sexual health concerns. We present research on the intrapersonal factors that might account for this association, including mental health factors such as psychological distress and substance use, as well as other individual considerations such as self-efficacy and sexual assertiveness. Partner-related factors, such as negative and coercive responses to condom use requests, reproductive coercion, and partner risk level, are also discussed. Additionally, we present information about the ways in which women’s sexual health may be compromised from sexual assault events resulting in genital injuries, sexually transmitted infections, or unwanted pregnancy. We then discuss the implications of this body of work and suggest future directions for research, prevention, and clinical approaches that address the critical linkages between women’s sexual victimization and sexual health.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationSexual Assault Risk Reduction and Resistance
Subtitle of host publicationTheory, Research, and Practice
PublisherElsevier
Pages379-406
Number of pages28
ISBN (Electronic)9780128053898
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2018

Keywords

  • Reproductive coercion
  • Risky sexual behavior
  • Sexual health
  • Sexually transmitted infections
  • Unwanted pregnancy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Psychology

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