Modeling Sexual Assault Risk Perception Among Heterosexual College Females

Abstract

This investigation utilizes structural equation modeling (SEM) to build and test a comprehensive model of specific and global risk perception. A sample of 325 undergraduate females responded to measures of previous victimization, problematic alcohol use, and maladaptive coping. They also rated perceived risk in multiple hypothetical dating vignettes. The results revealed strong relationships between problematic alcohol use and both decreased specific and increased global risk perception. In addition, previous victimization and maladaptive coping were related to increased global risk perception and specific risk perception, respectively. These findings carry implications for theories of risk perception and point to new approaches for research.