An evaluation of a sexual assault prevention and advocacy program for U.S. Navy personnel

Abstract

To address the needs of Navy personnel (and dependents), the Navy implemented the Sexual Assault Victim Intervention (SAVI) program. The SAVI program has two components, namely, a presentation/training component and an advocacy component. The presentation/training component involves education designed to increase awareness and prevention of sexual victimization, delivered to all military and civilian personnel through presentations, and training of SAVI advocates. The advocacy component provides victims with professionally trained advocates who provide information and emotional support and help guide victims through various medical, legal, and investigative processes. Data are presented on (1) satisfaction with program quality, (2) how well the SAVI program met its primary objectives (e.g., helps program users cope with sexual trauma), (3) how well the SAVI program met its primary program objectives or reasons for being (e.g., helps service members concentrate on their jobs), and (4) program effects on mission-related outcomes (i.e., quality of life, readiness, and intended retention).