Improving Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention from the Bottom-up: a Pilot of Getting To Outcomes in the US Military

• DOI: 10.1007/s11121-023-01577-3
• Publication Date: 2023-08-29T09:03:08Z
• Authors: Matthew Chinman; Joie Acosta; Susan Bush-Mecenas; Sierra Smucker; Coreen Farris; Beverly Fortson; Pamela Imm; Andrea Lamont; Thomas Maguire; Laurie Martin; Abraham Wandersman; Amber Watson; Amanda Wicker; Andra Tharp
• Keywords: Harassment

Abstract While the Department of Defense (DoD) has given increased attention and priority to preventing sexual assault harassment (SA/SH), it remains a problem. To build its prevention capacity, DoD piloted Getting Outcomes ® (GTO ) from 2019 2022 at 10 military installations. GTO is an evidence-based planning implementation support that been used in many civilian contexts but only recently adapted for SA/SH. The purpose this study was describe use, identify benefits challenges, discuss lessons effort yielded more broadly using framework organizational program-level capacities needed successful context, called Prevention Evaluation Framework (PEF). with installations (“sites”) representing all Military Services, plus Coast Guard National Guard. comprised written guide, training, ongoing coaching. pilot’s goal each site use implement SA/SH program twice. Participants were interviewed data collected on steps completed, whether spurred new evaluation activities collaborations, degree leadership GTO. Most sites completed least once. Interviews showed participants believe improved understanding, planning, capacity; strengthened confidence chosen programs; helped tailor programs context. Barriers complexity GTO, personnel turnover, disruption COVID pandemic caused delivery. Many respondents unsure if they would continue after coaching ended, believed some parts. According PEF, pilot revealed several additional system gaps (e.g., need support) changes stronger leader champion engagement), quality prevention. other large organizations will focus these issues ensure are conducted quality.