The Repository @ St. Cloud State

Open Access Knowledge and Scholarship

Date of Award

5-2024

Culminating Project Type

Thesis

Styleguide

apa

Degree Name

Social Work: M.S.W

Department

Social Work

College

School of Health and Human Services

First Advisor

Patience Togo-Malm

Second Advisor

Sheila Moriarty

Third Advisor

Dick Andzenge

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

Keywords and Subject Headings

sexual assault, racial/ethnic minorities, services, victimization

Abstract

Racial and ethnic disparities in service provision within victim support organizations are a pressing concern in the field of sexual violence advocacy. The thesis examines disparities using data from the CMSAC in 2021, revealing nuanced patterns of service usage among diverse racial and ethnic groups. It utilizes a quantitative research design and explores data using descriptive analysis and chi-square analysis to identify major components of services and victimizations. It uncovers significant variations in help-seeking behaviors and experiences of victimization within these communities. The study reveals disparities in service utilization among racial and ethnic groups: Latino/Hispanic individuals seek support for child sexual abuse and sexual violence information, highlighting the need for cultural competence. Conversely, Asian communities access services less due to stigma and barriers. Black/African American and White (Non-Latino)/Caucasian individuals engage more, reflecting systemic barriers. Common victimizations include adult sexual assault, domestic/family violence, and sex trafficking, with underreporting underscoring the need for culturally sensitive approaches. The thesis recommends victim support organizations to enhance outreach, cultural competence, and intake processes for diverse communities. Emphasizing intersectional approaches, it calls for further research on correlations between racial/ethnic minorities and victimization risk factors. Despite limitations like secondary data reliance, the study provides valuable insights into racial and ethnic disparities. Addressing these gaps can empower organizations to provide equitable access to support services for all sexual violence survivors.

Comments/Acknowledgements

This thesis would not have been possible without instrumental individuals in my life. First, I would like to thank my committee chair, Dr. Patience Togo-Malm, who mentored me through the thesis process. My profound gratitude also goes to my committee members and fellow mentors, Dr. Sheila Moriarty and Dr. Dick Andzenge, who served as great sources of knowledge and skills. I would like to thank my friends and colleagues who helped review this thesis. I would also like to thank the management and staff of CMSAC, specifically Andrew Khaeler, the executive director of the Central Minnesota Sexual Assault Center (CMSAC), who has an ardent desire to address the needs of victims/survivors from racial and ethnic minorities and to make services more accommodating to said needs.

To my family and friends, especially my partner Mason Colestock, for being a solid source of encouragement throughout my graduate school experience. Mr. Andy Kumah and Mrs. Emelia Kumah, thank you for believing in me. Finally, I would like to thank God for seeing me through this Journey. This thesis is dedicated to anyone affected by sexual assault specifically racial and ethnic minority victims/survivors.

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