'Information Is Power:' Promoting a Safer Environment for College Students to Report Sexual Violence

Most college students do not report sexual violence (SV) incidents reportable under Title IX to their universities. Several studies focus on Title IX in regard to gender equality in sports or SV survivors' perceptions of their Title IX experience. However, few studies examine the knowledge and perceptions of Title IX of the general college student body using qualitative methods. This study expands upon this literature by exploring college students' perspectives on Title IX, including the most recent amendments to Title IX regulations. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with 55 students with different levels of Title IX experience at one university. The results show that, with the exception of students with Title IX experience, most students lack knowledge about Title IX regulations and procedures, but all students had high expectations of the Title IX office. There is also skepticism and confusion surrounding changes to Title IX regulations.