Title IX? What's That? A Qualitative Research Study of UMR Student Awareness of Title IX Resources
This qualitative pilot study examined UMR students' pre-existing knowledge of Title IX policy and how it informs their beliefs about reporting sexual misconduct on campus. Lacking an understanding of such policies can lead to negative or conflicting views about the reporting process, thus making reporting incidents of sexual misconduct feel inconsequential and inaccessible to UMR’s student population. Five participants were asked to collect and reflect on five photos that remind them of policies regarding sexual harassment on campus; this was done as part of the Photo Elicitation method of collecting qualitative data. Research group members then conducted a one-on-one interview in-person with a fellow UMR student to discuss their photos. The responses shared in student interviews revealed that students possess a minimal understanding of Title IX policies. Many of the participants also expressed concerns about social repercussions and believe there are many barriers that prevent reporting of sexual assault. These findings highlight a critical need for further study into student understanding/awareness of Title IX policy, improvement in policy accessibility and effectiveness of reporting channels at UMR, and addressing perceived response gaps in student safety needs.
Group members: Sydney Kowarsch, Taylar Richardson, Jillian Bettencourt, and Olivia Riley