Status is a component of social structure that is upheld in just about every environment. In the workforce, the CEO and people in management positions are perceived to have a higher status than entry-level employees. In society, the affluent and famous have an elevated social status than those with fewer resources and notoriety. In higher education, athletes (especially good ones) are the big dogs on campus. They're practically worshipped by a mob of adoring fans, consisting of students, professors, officials, and even administrators. Being revered at such a high level undoubtedly has its perks. But with all the glitz and glamour, drawbacks like conceit, entitlement and privilege rear their ugly heads.

Status plays an undeniable role in sexual activity. It shapes who has access to sex, how much access they have and with whom, and with what repercussions. It directly influences hookup culture, which is incredibly prevalent on college campuses across the country. The relatively new concept of “hooking up” is either championed or revolted. Some embrace the idea of having sex with whoever they want, whenever they want, deeming the culture “liberating.” While others condemn hooking up, calling the sexual relationships developed in this culture “meaningless.”. Despite the many opinions many have, one thing is for certain: High-status college students, particularly athletes who play the most celebrated sports, benefit from hookup culture.

With some athlete's identification with hypermasculinity and likeliness of being confused about consent, the finding of a recent study isn't the least bit surprising. ESPN television program, Outside the Lines, announced that college athletes were about three times more likely than other students to be accused of sexual assault, domestic violence, sexual exploitation, sexual coercion, stalking and retaliation. This finding is based upon data collected from 23 Power 5 schools that provided records in response to requests for complaints against athletes over the past six years.

The data provided that, on average, about 6.3 percent of Title IX complaints against students - whether the complaint resulted in a formal investigation or not - involved an athlete as the person of accused of wrongdoing, formally referred to as a “respondent” in reports. Whether or not they were found “responsible” for these accusations was not included in the study.

All some studies do is confirm the obvious, and this is one of them. It's been clear through the countless high-profile cases that surfaced involving very prominent student athletes. Making sure the adjudication process is fair benefits both accusers and the accused nonetheless.

Nationwide Title IX Advisor

The only way to make sure your voice is heard and your rights are upheld is to retain a student defense attorney. For respondents, especially, the assistance of an attorney advisor is invaluable in the Title IX process. National Title IX attorney Joseph D. Lento has the skill, experience, and expertise to help you preserve your entitled rights under Title IX and your school's policy. For a case evaluation or more information about his representation, contact him online or give him a call at 888-535-3686 today.