Ethnicity, gender and coercive sexual attitudes and ethnic differences in childhood abuse and trauma

• Main Author: Kennedy, Margaret Alexis
• Language: English
• Published: 2009
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2429/7924

CHAPTER 1 - ETHNICITY, GENDER AND COERCIVE SEXUAL ATTITUDES This study explored potential differences between Asian and non-Asian university students in attitudes towards coercive and non-coercive sexual behaviour. Four hundred respondents (205 Asian, 195 non-Asian) were assessed on attitudes toward rape, sexual harassment and non-coercive sexual behaviour. Gender differences and interactions between gender and ethnicity were also examined. Further, length of residency in Canada of Asian respondents was examined to determine whether "Westernization" might attenuate differences between Asians and non-Asians. Statistical analysis revealed that Asian students were significantly more conservative in attitudes towards non-coercive sexual behaviour, tolerance of rape myths and acceptance of sexual harassment. Length of residency in Canada decreased conservatism in attitudes towards tolerance of rape myths and acceptance of sexual harassment. By contrast, length of residency in Canada had almost no effect on attitudes towards non-coercive sexual behaviour. On almost all items, women were less conservative than men of the same ethnic background. CHAPTER II - ETHNIC DIFFERENCES IN CHILDHOOD ABUSE AND TRAUMA This study explored potential differences between university students of Asian and non- Asian origin in experiences of childhood maltreatment. Eleven hundred and fifteen respondents (615 Asian, 500 non-Asian) were assessed for their self-reported experiences of child abuse and trauma. Potential gender differences and interactions between gender and ethnicity were also examined. Further, length of residency in Canada of Asian respondents was examined to determine whether "Westernization" might attenuate differences between Asians and non-Asians. Statistical analysis revealed that Asian students reported significantly more negative experiences in childhood and adolescence. Asian students reported significantly higher levels of punishment, negative home environment and neglect. Increased length of residency in Canada resulted in a decrease in reported levels of punishment but not other types of childhood maltreatment. Significant gender differences were found on relatively few items and there were no interactions between gender and ethnicity.