Self-reported Data

Self-reported data is an alternative method of gauging rates of sexual assault in Canada, although it is also imperfect. Self-reported data is often seen as more indicative of the actual scope of sexual assault in Canada as self-reporting carries no commitment to follow through on criminal charges. Self- reporting data is collected via the General Social Survey on Victimization. This survey focuses heavily on the impacts of individual identity and social location and their relationship to violent victimization. It also provides insights into the gaps between formal and informal reporting. Evidence demonstrated over 650 000 self-reported incidents of sexual assault in 2014, despite police-reported data suggesting the number was under 25 000. Self-reported statistics of victimization in Canada demonstrate that as little as 5% of all sexual assaults may be reported to the police.

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