The Influence of Environmental Factors on Sexual Harm in Geelong Nightlife Venues: An Observational Study

Button, K, Coomber, K, Taylor, N, de Andrade, D, Quigg, Z ORCID: 0000-0002-7212-5852 and Miller, P (2025) The Influence of Environmental Factors on Sexual Harm in Geelong Nightlife Venues: An Observational Study. Deviant Behavior. pp. 1-13. ISSN 0163-9625

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Abstract

This exploratory study examines how modifiable venue characteristics relate to nightlife sexual harm. Researchers conducted 35 covert observations across 18 nightlife venues in Geelong, Victoria. Observers recorded venue lighting, decibel levels, crowding, and incidents of sexual harm. Sexual harm was observed in 37% of observations. LUX was an ineffective measure of lighting; however, observer-rated lighting showed a strong negative correlation with sexual harm, indicating that darker venues were associated with more incidents. Sexual harm correlated moderately with decibel levels and strongly with crowding. Venue design changes that enhance visibility and reduce crowding may improve patron safety and increase intervention opportunities.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	4402 Criminology; 44 Human Society; 1608 Sociology; 1701 Psychology; Criminology; 4402 Criminology; 4410 Sociology; 5201 Applied and developmental psychology
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
Divisions:	Public and Allied Health
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Date of acceptance:	11 September 2025
Date of first compliant Open Access:	17 April 2026
Date Deposited:	17 Apr 2026 15:40
Last Modified:	17 Apr 2026 15:40
DOI or ID number:	10.1080/01639625.2025.2562116
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/28404

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