Date Approved

2018

Degree Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department or School

Communication, Media and Theatre Arts

Committee Member

Dennis O’Grady, Ph.D., Chair

Committee Member

Jessica Elton, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Tsai-Shan Shen, Ph.D

Abstract

This study investigates resident advisers’ (RAs) perceptions of their mandatory reporter status required under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX). As a mandatory reporter, RAs must report any known-to-them sexual misconduct. This requirement to report can be very complicated for RAs, as they often create close relationships with the residents they serve. The present study used a 60-item survey to assess 130 RAs’ perceptions of Title IX. The results showed the belief that relationships between the RAs and residents complicates reporting in the following ways: comfort level associated with reporting, willingness to give support, and willingness to follow up. It was also found that RAs’ understanding of the Title IX process was positively correlated with feelings of comfort when reporting. Practical implications for future RA training are discussed.

Included in

Communication Commons

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