Suicide attempts and depression associated factors among the male child sexual abuse survivors in Bangladesh

Abstract

In Bangladesh, male child sexual assault is seldom ever reported. Due to cultural standards, sexual assault survivors often refrain from talking about their experiences. Depression therefore overtakes them. Their mental health declines and their chance of committing suicide rises. The goal of this study was to explore depression and suicide attempts among Bangladeshi male child sexual assault survivors. An online survey was conducted, and data was collected using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and one suicide attempt item. Descriptive analysis, Pearson chi-square test, and a binary logistic regression model were fit to analyze the data. A total of 61 participants participated. All the participants were depressed, with 67.21 % having severe depression. 21.31 % of the survivors attempted suicide at least once. Disclosure rates were relatively low, with only 14.75 % of participants reporting affirmative disclosure, Furthermore, a significant proportion of participants experienced repetitive abuse (73.77 %), and the prevalence of physical abuse was also notable, with 78.69 % reporting such experiences. To safeguard children and adolescents, parents as well as government stakeholders must be aware of male child sexual abuse. Public discourse regarding the subject is recommended. To stave off suicide and safeguard victims, experts advise seeking professional assistance.