| Summary: | 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. === Arts, Faculty of === Psychology, Department of === Graduate
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