NCJ Number
237068
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 23 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2008 Pages: 728-743
Date Published
June 2008
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This study examined the face validity and feasibility of materials included in a multimedia child sexual abuse (CSA) prevention campaign.
Abstract
A quantitative survey method assessed participants' comfort level, knowledge gain, and likelihood of behavioral change in response to the media campaign. Furthermore, a focus group method explored participants' attitudes and opinions regarding the campaign and the unique effects of ethnic or cultural norms on participants' acceptance of the media materials. Six groups, established based on participant ethnicity (i.e., three Caucasian groups, two African-American groups, one Hispanic group), met at two sites in the Charleston, SC, area. Quantitative data suggest that participants reported increased CSA knowledge and low levels of discomfort or anxiety related to exposure to the materials. Focus group results suggest that study participants, regardless of ethnic background, agreed that the media campaign can have a positive impact on public knowledge of CSA. Implications and directions for future research are discussed. (Published Abstract)