"They're hoping we can stop it": Student leadership in sexual violence intervention and response at West Point. Issue 5 (24th February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Arbeit, Miriam R.
• Is Part Of: Journal of community psychology. Volume 46:Issue 5(2018)
• Page Start: 598
• Page End: 615
• Publication Date: 2018-02-24
• Subjects: Clinical psychology -- Periodicals; Social psychiatry -- Periodicals; Community Mental Health Services -- Periodicals; 362.2205
• DOI: 10.1002/jcop.21961
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0090-4392

Abstract

Abstract: This study identified risks and opportunities in peer leadership approaches to sexual violence intervention and response. Constructivist grounded theory was used to analyze semistructured interviews with 24 cadets, including a bystander intervention scenario. With regard to bystander intervention, cadets adhered to gendered assumptions that blocked action, drew upon community values to plan intervention, and thus prepared in ways that reinforced gender biases. With regard to incident response, cadets struggled with cynicism regarding their role in addressing sexual assault, but wanted incidents to be reported despite victim blaming and lack of supports, and responded from their feelings instead of skillfully acting on their values. This study explicates opportunities for leveraging community values in service of intervention and response while illustrating risks of rape myths and gender biases. Addressing inaccurate assumptions and reinforcing positive values could better prepare cadets and other undergraduate students for leadership.