Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Using the Theory of Planned Behavior to Promote Sexual Consent of Undergraduates in Greek-Letter Organizations

Objective: Sexual assault is prevalent among undergraduates in Greek-letter organizations (GLO). Prevention efforts promote sexual consent, though few explicitly employ theoretical constructs known to positively influence behavior. This study evaluated theory-informed educational posters promoting sexual consent seeking. Participants: Forty undergraduate GLO students (20 female, 20 male) were recruited through in-person, email, and social media solicitation. Data collection was completed March-November 2019 during the spring and fall semesters. Methods: A double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. Intervention participants viewed theory-informed educational posters promoting sexual consent. Results: The intervention group demonstrated more favorable consent intention (p = 0.024; ?2 = 0.131) and consent subjective norms (p = 0.040; ?2 = 0.109). Intervention group males showed a greater improvement in one of four consent attitudes (p = 0.045; ?2 = 0.211). Conclusions: Brief exposures to theory-informed messaging may help to improve subjective norms and behavioral intent to seek sexual consent among undergraduate GLO members.