Abstract Summary/Description
Sexual violence (SV) against adult women is common, with over 50% experiencing SV involving physical contact in their lifetime. Survivors face long-term effects on their sexual health and well-being, including reduced sexual assertiveness, difficulties in communication, increased sexual shame, and risky sexual behaviors. Unfortunately, existing intervention fail to address survivors’ specific sexual health needs such as these. Furthermore, survivors are less likely to have access to comprehensive sex education (CSE) and often face barriers in their experiences with sex education. CSE has been shown to improve sexual self-efficacy, reduce shame, and enhance sexual self-perception, all of which contribute to better sexual health outcomes. My thesis examines the effects of a targeted, six-hour sex education program on survivors’ sexual shame, self-efficacy, and self-concept. Workshops are held at local sexual assault centers and on GSU campus, with participants engaging in group activities and mindfulness exercises. Surveys are completed before and after the program to measure outcomes. Findings from this research will provide a better understanding of the sexual well-being of adult female survivors, inform future interventions, and help practitioners working with survivors. By the conference date, three workshops will have been conducted, and preliminary data will be available. My presentation will provide an overview of the curriculum, methods, and any preliminary findings, supported by pictures from workshops conducted prior to the study. Attendees will also participate in an interactive sex education activity from the intervention, providing insight into the program’s holistic approach and impact.
