Frequency, Perceived Effect and Coping Strategies for Frotteurism among Nursing Students at a University in Enugu, Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Descriptive Survey

Chidinma Israel¹, Mariagoretti Agbo², Peace N. Iheanacho¹

1. Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria
2. University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku Ozalla, Enugu State, Nigeria
   *Corresponding Author: Chidinma E. Israel; E-mail: chidinma.ogbonnaya@unn.edu.ng

Abstract
Background
Frotteurism has been regarded as just a nuisance crime but studies have shown that victims experience months of distress and feelings of violation and disgust. As nursing undergraduates navigate from their residence to their points of clinical placement, they may be exposed to frotteuristic treatments from members of the public and this might cause them distress. As no similar data exists in literature, this study ascertained the frequency, perceived effect, and coping strategies for frotteurism among undergraduates at the University of Nigeria, Enugu.
Methods
A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted among 229 Nursing undergraduates. Data was collected using a researcher-developed structured questionnaire for prevalence and perceived effects and the BRIEF coping inventory to ascertain coping mechanisms.
Results
Majority (73.4%) of respondents had experienced frotteuristic victimization at least once. Rubbing of the thigh by a stranger (58.5%) and touching that involves any sensitive areas (56.8%) were the commonest frotteuristic treatments experienced, though their frequencies were low, (1.42±1.13, and 1.35±1.11) respectively. The reported effects of frotteurism were anger/upset (4.36±0.98), and changes in behavior such as being more cautious while in public places (4.23±0.98). Coping strategies among victims included turning to work/ other activities to take their minds off (2.58±1.18) and accepting the reality that it had happened (2.53±1.10). Experience of frotteurism was not significantly associated with the demographic characteristics of age (p = .760), gender (p =.863), and academic level of study.. There was no significant association between the frequency of frotteurism treatment and perceived effects among victims (p =.457).
Conclusion
The majority of the respondents had experienced a frotteuristic victimization by strangers and the experience was perceived to be upsetting. Findings highlight the need for healthcare providers to recognize the need for providing supportive interventions to victims of this common but often overlooked sexual offense.

Keywords: Coping strategies, Frequency, Frotteurism, Perceived effect, Prevalence, Undergraduate Nursing Students.