Understanding College Students' Perceived Help-Seeking Knowledge and Awareness about Sexual Misconduct Policies and Procedures.

This article examines college students' perceived and actual knowledge of campus resources, policies, and procedures related to sexual misconduct at a midsized southeastern university (referred to as SE4YU). Using data from a 2017 campus climate survey of 2,261 students, the study finds that while students report moderate perceived knowledge about help-seeking, approximately 67% have gaps in accurate understanding of key policies such as mandatory reporting, investigation mandates, confidential resources, and accommodations for survivors. Factors positively associated with greater knowledge include receiving sexual violence education from the university, attending gender-based violence events, and having personal connections to individuals involved in Title IX processes, whereas membership in Greek life and experiences of non-contact sexual victimization were linked to lower awareness or knowledge gaps. The findings highlight the need for institutions of higher education to enhance culturally relevant, comprehensive education and targeted outreach to improve student awareness and empower informed decision-making regarding sexual misconduct resources and procedures.