The epidemiology of child maltreatment and its association with mental and somatic health in Norwegian teenagers – a national survey among 9240 12-16-year olds

Abstract

Abstract Background Child maltreatment has emerged as a key public health issue because of its serious consequences and long-term costs. Still, there are few large epidemiological studies on the prevalence of child maltreatment in adolescents, despite being a crucial transitional period making it particularly important to study. Aims We aimed to estimate the prevalence of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse in Norwegian adolescents, as well as health and daily functioning in abused versus non-abused youth. Methods A representative sample of 9240 Norwegian 12-16-year olds (response rate of 86.6%) completed a web-based survey designed to measure lifetime and last-year prevalence of physical and emotional abuse, sexual abuse by adults or peers, and neglect. We also assessed mental and physical health, and daily functioning, including sleep, school absence. Results Four percent of the sample (no sex difference) reported at least one episode of severe physical abuse from a caregiver during their childhood, while an additional 15% percent reported less severe abuse episodes. While 6% reported sexual abuse by an adult, 22% had experienced sexual abuse by a peer, the latter escalating significantly during adolescence. There was a large overlap in exposure types; more than 50% of those experiencing physical abuse, had also experienced emotional abuse. Conclusions Severe maltreatment was strongly associated with parental risk factors such as low SES, substance abuse, and immigrant status, while less severe violence was more randomly distributed. Somatic and mental health and daily functioning were significantly more negatively affected in maltreated youth compared to non-abused peers.