An examination of Title IX training and knowledge at a public university

Abstract

Title IX prohibits sex-discrimination in colleges in the United States. While colleges must provide training on Title IX, little is known about its effectiveness. This study examined the campus climate and effectiveness of Title IX training among 2,393 college students at a medium-size public university in the south-central region of the U.S. Results indicated 68% of students reported they understood Title IX, yet only 14% correctly understood Title IX prohibited sex-discrimination and 16% correctly understood reporting procedures. Regression analyses found few significant effects for demographics, academic characteristics, satisfaction with the campus, and beliefs about university support on training participation, training knowledge, and help seeking for sexual assault survivors. Positive perceptions of campus climate increased participation in training, efficacy of training, and confidence in helping sexual assault survivors. However, participation in training was negatively impacted by perceptions of faculty support. Age, asexual identity, and Asian identity affected training participation and efficacy.