The Impact of Adult Sexual Assault on Sexual Behavior: an Exploration of the Impact of Sexual Orientation, Gender Differences, and Coping

Adult Sexual Assault (ASA) is global problem that can have serious life-long implications for its survivors. ASA can affect its survivors' physical health, mental health, sexual functioning, and interpersonal relationships. The purpose of this current study was to examine the effects that ASA has on its survivors' subsequent consensual sexual behaviors. This current study focused solely on ASA, in which the participant was at least 18 years of age at the time of his or her first experience with Sexual Assault (SA). The sample was not limited to a particular sex, gender, or sexual orientation. Instead, this current study sought to investigate the potential impact that sexual orientation and gender differences may have on consensual sexual behavior post-assault. Additionally, the coping styles used in response to the ASA experience were analyzed to determine their potential effects on participant sexual behavior. A total of 273 anonymous participants completed electronic assessments that measured previous sexual experiences, sexual attitudes and behavior, and coping style, in addition to a demographics questionnaire. One-third of these participants (n = 82) met the criteria to be assigned to the ASA group, while the other two-thirds of participants (n = 191) met the criteria to be assigned to the non-ASA group. Assessment results were analyzed by ASA-status, coping style, gender, and sexual orientation.