Women's Health & Trauma Study

PI: Dr. Colin Mahoney, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Co-PI: Dr. Maria Galano, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

Project Description

This is a prospective study examining a variety of risk factors and outcomes associated with both campus sexual assault and intimate partner violence experiences among college women. Variables related to substance use, risky sexual experiences, exposure to trauma, discrimination experiences, and social support can impact overall well-being and exacerbate or maintain the symptoms of mental disorders such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study aims to examine these factors over time to better understand their complex and cumulative influence and the corresponding needs of women with co-occurring PTSD and substance use problems. A battery of surveys are administered at three different time points over a six-month period (i.e., baseline, 3 months, 6 months).

Participant Expectations / Eligibility

For participants that agree to take part in this study, you will be asked to complete some brief screening measures online (approximately 10 minutes) and then complete an interview (approximately 90-120 minutes). This interview may be conducted either in-person or online via MS Teams. As a part of the interview, you will be asked questions that assess coping strategies and traumatic experiences – including exposure to violence, child abuse, and sexual assault. We will also ask questions about impulsivity, substance use, and psychological symptoms. All UCCS students that identify as women and are over the age of 18 are eligible for this study.

Contact Info: Contact Study Coordinator Katelyn Bindbeutel (kbindbeu@uccs.edu) for questions or more information.