Campus sexual assault : college women respond /

Lauren Germain has written a powerful, important, and timely book that helps the reader understand the devastation caused by campus sexual assault. The author describes her research project in great detail, underscoring the sensitive and difficult nature of this issue. Twenty-six college women volunteered to be interviewed and gave voice to their sexual assault experiences and coping strategies. This reviewer was impressed with the empathy Germain displayed in advertising, conducting, and analyzing the research. The book provides an excellent overview of the current federal legislation that addresses campus sexual assault. Understanding federal interventions such as Title IX, the Clery Act, and the Campus SaVE Act is critical for higher education professionals as they address the complexity of campus sexual assault. The research results will help those working on a college campus understand what women actually do following sexual assault and why they do it. In listening to women's voices, Germain uncovered eight forms of post-assault agency exercised by the women she interviewed. Understanding these forms of agency can assist higher education educators in developing and implementing programs, policies, and support services. A must read for educators! Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers. --Jacqueline S. Hodes, West Chester University