Sexual Abuse Research Articles

Using machine learning modeling to identify childhood abuse victims on the basis of personality inventory responses

Trauma is very common and associated with significant co-morbidity world-wide, particularly PTSD and frequently other mental health disorders. However, it can be challenging to identify victims of abuse as self-reports can be difficult to elicit due to emotional distress. Better confirmation of a history of significant mistreatment can assist significantly in treatment planning. We evaluate an alternate approach based on machine-learning techniques applied to personality inventory data (Minnesota Personality Inventory, Adolescent Version; MMPI-A) obtained concurrently to examine convergence with reports of past trauma exposure. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) was administered to 733 child and adolescent inpatients. Statistical and information-theory measures showed that each type of abuse – sexual, physical, and emotional – had a unique “fingerprint” of MMPI-A profiles. In contrast to our previous findings in terms of specific correlations with IQ, individuals positive for Sexual abuse had the fewest MMPI-A elevations, followed by Physical abuse, while those reporting Emotional abuse had the greatest number of elevations. We developed an initial classifier Machine Learning (ML) model for predicting a history of abuse that demonstrates equivalent sensitivity compared to other widely used screening measures. In addition, we show via PCA and cluster analysis that the different levels of severity of emotional abuse present with unique mixtures of personality trait characteristics. Thus, this type of ML mediated analysis could permit at-scale detection of those at potential high risk of a history of abuse by use of real-time information, using a variety of nontransparent data sources.

The importance of Medical Expertise in cases of Sexual Abuse in the Pediatric Population

The importance of Medical Expertise in cases of Sexual Abuse in the Pediatric Population

Using nominal group technique to investigate the factors of child sexual abuse in Malaysia

Using nominal group technique to investigate the factors of child sexual abuse in Malaysia

Knowledge and Social Aspects of Minors Sexual Abuse in Two Communes in Southern Benin: A Study Conducted on Social Workers and Parents of Children

Knowledge and Social Aspects of Minors Sexual Abuse in Two Communes in Southern Benin: A Study Conducted on Social Workers and Parents of Children

Child sexual abuse and social identity loss: A qualitative analysis of survivors' public accounts.

Emerging evidence suggests that social identities are an important determinant of adaptation following traumatic life experiences. In this paper, we analyse accounts of people who experienced child sexual abuse. Using publicly available talk of people who waived their right to anonymity following successful conviction of perpetrators, we conducted a thematic analysis focusing on trauma-related changes in their social identities. Analysis of these accounts highlighted two themes. The first highlights the acquisition in these accounts of unwanted and damaging identity labels. The second presents child sexual abuse as a key destructive force in terms of important identity work during childhood. Discussion of this analysis centres on the pathological consequences of social identity change. Both the loss of valued identities and the acquisition of aberrant and isolating identities are experienced and constructed as devastating by those affected by child sexual abuse. This has important implications, not only for those impacted by child sexual abuse but for how abuse is discussed in society, and how it is approached by policy makers, educators and individuals working with survivors and their families.

58 - Surgical Treatment of Complex Sexual Abuse Sequelae: a report of concurrent Buccal Mucosa Graft Urethroplasty, Autologous Sling, and Vulvoplasty.

58 - Surgical Treatment of Complex Sexual Abuse Sequelae: a report of concurrent Buccal Mucosa Graft Urethroplasty, Autologous Sling, and Vulvoplasty.

Non-partner Sexual Violence Among International College Students in the United States

The prevalence of non-partner sexual violence among college students is a pressing concern that demands urgent attention. Although an integral part of the education system, international college students are often underrepresented in various studies. This calls attention to understanding the cultural nuances and multiple factors affecting this population. The current research delves into the experiences of sexual abuse among international students within the last 12 months, focusing specifically on incidents where sexual penetration or unwanted sexual touching occurred without consent. The study sheds light on the frequency and demographics associated with these distressing incidents using data from a large-scale survey conducted over the past year, encompassing a sample size of 13,242 international student respondents. Results reveal alarming statistics, with a substantial proportion of international students reporting experiences of non-partner sexual violence. Specifically, 4.8% of participants reported being sexually touched without consent, 1.9% reported attempted sexual penetration without consent, and 1.6% reported actual sexual penetration or being made to penetrate someone without consent. Moreover, the analysis indicates significant associations between experiences of sexual abuse and key demographic variables such as gender, relationship status, and number of sexual partners. Further exploration through univariate regression unveils compelling insights into the intersectionality of sexual violence, highlighting disparities based on biological sex, relationship status, and number of sexual partners among international students. The present study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies to address the pervasive issue of non-partner sexual violence among international college students. By understanding the dynamics of these incidents and their correlates, institutions can tailor support services, advocacy efforts, and educational initiatives to create safer and more inclusive environments for all international students.

Impact of Psychological Abuse, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, and Neglect During Childhood on Criminal Behavior among Prisoners at Forensic Mental Health Department

Introduction: Childhood maltreatment, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and neglect, has been consistently linked to a higher likelihood of aggressive and criminal behaviour in adulthood. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "cycle of violence," perpetuates across generations. Furthermore, victimization during childhood can lead to a broad range of mental health problems, including personality disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia, and substance abuse. These issues are particularly prevalent among individuals within the forensic mental health system. Objectives: The study aims to evaluate the impact of psychological abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect during childhood on criminal behaviour among prisoners at forensic mental health department. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted to determine the impact of child abuse on criminal behaviour among prisoners in the Forensic Medicine Department. The study was during the period from December 19, 2022 to 15th of July 2024. The research has been carried out at Baghdad City's Al-Rashad Training Hospital. non-probability purposive sample procedures, this study sampling method relied on our judgment when identifying and selecting prisoners in the forensic medicine department, after their consent, who could provide the best information to achieve the objectives of the study. We choose purposive sampling because we want to focus in depth on relatively small samples (150) to get the most accurate results. a purposive sample of (110) prisoners was selected from Al-Rashad Training Hospital. Results: The findings indicate that prisoners having moderate to high level of psychological abuse during childhood among items. Prisoners having moderate to high level of physical abuse during childhood among items. The findings indicate that prisoners having moderate to high level of sexual abuse during childhood among items. The prisoners having moderate to high level of neglect during childhood among items. The prisoners have high level of criminal behaviour. There are significant relationships between (psychological, physical, sexual abuse) during childhood and criminal behaviour. Conclusions: Prisoners experience a moderate to high level of psychological abuse, physical abuse, and neglect during childhood, and the prisoners also experience a moderate to high level of sexual abuse during childhood.

Sexual Abuse Among Adolescents (13 to 19 Years) of Boys and Girls in Three Private Schools in Dhaka City, Bangladesh

Background: Sexual abuse in adolescents is a global public health issue with severe physical, psychological, and long-term effects. In Bangladesh, societal stigma, underreporting, and weak legal enforcement further exacerbate the issue. Objectives: The primary objective is to evaluate the prevalence and patterns of sexual abuse among adolescents in three Dhaka schools, with secondary objectives to assess their clinical, demographic, and mental health status. Method and Materials: This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the prevalence of sexual abuse among 130 adolescents (aged 13-19) from three private schools in Dhaka, selected through purposive sampling. Data will be collected using a pre-tested questionnaire administered by trained research assistants. The data will be analyzed using SPSS and STATA for both descriptive and inferential statistics. Result: The study included 130 adolescents, with boys making up 53.8% and girls 46.2%. The most prevalent form of sexual abuse was verbal abuse, reported by 46.2% of participants, followed by physical touch (30.8%) and online abuse (15.4%). Peers or schoolmates were the primary perpetrators in 38.5% of cases, while 19.2% reported abuse by strangers. Notably, 46.2% of the adolescents did not report the abuse to anyone. Of those who did, 30.8% informed school authorities, and 23.1% confided in their family. Conclusion: Children, particularly girls, are highly vulnerable to sexual abuse due to lack of parental awareness, weak reporting systems, and difficulty in disclosing abuse. Strengthening community vigilance and reporting mechanisms is essential to protect them.

CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE IMPACT ON ADULTHOOD

Introduction – Child sexual abuse (CSA) occurs when a kid or younger person is forced or persuaded to engage in sexual activity, whether the child is conscious of what is taking place. According to global databases, in one-third of countries in the world, at least 5% of young women reported experiences of sexual abuse in childhood. Mental health issues, behavioral manifestations, and interpersonal outcomes are a few impacts of CSA. This study aims to discuss the CSA's impact on adulthood. Methods – The researcher used a total of 13 works of literature, articles, and journals that discuss CSA and its correlation with some mental health issues impact on an adult. Results – Adults with a history of CSA are more likely to suffer from early onset depression, borderline personality disorder, and suicidal tendencies than someone without a history, that is why emotional support seems very important to the CSA survivors. Discuss – As children are sexually abused, it may lead to a variety of difficulties with relationships in general, as well as a host of poor intimate relationship consequences such as adult sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and reduced happiness in romantic relationships. Conclusion – Childhood sexual abuse is still a major problem among children and has several psychological impacts on adulthood, and emotional support is one of the great therapies. Keywords: childhood, sexual, abuse.

Developmental Predictors of Suicidality in Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review.

Background/Objectives: Schizophrenia (SZ) is a severe psychiatric disorder characterized by a complex interplay of genetic, developmental, and environmental factors that significantly increase the risk of suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempts (SAs). This systematic review synthesizes current research on the developmental predictors of SI in individuals with SZ, aiming to delineate the multifactorial etiology of suicide within this population. Methods: A comprehensive search across Medline, PsycINFO, and EMBASE databases identified 23 eligible studies, emphasizing the varied methodological approaches and the global distribution of research efforts. Results: These studies demonstrate a robust association between early life adversities, particularly childhood trauma such as physical neglect, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse, and the increased prevalence of SI and SAs in SZ. This review also highlights the significant genetic factors associated with the development of suicidality in SZ, raising the possibility that polymorphisms in inflammation-related genes and neurodevelopmental abnormalities may influence susceptibility to SI. Notably, family history of psychiatric conditions may exacerbate the risk of SI through both hereditary and environmental mechanisms. Environmental factors, including socioeconomic status and social support, are also implicated, underscoring the role of broader socio-environmental conditions influencing outcomes. Conclusions: This review supports the integration of biopsychosocial models in understanding SI in SZ, advocating for interventions addressing the complex interplay of risk factors and the need for longitudinal studies to elucidate the dynamic interactions between risk factors over time. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for developing targeted preventive strategies and enhancing the clinical management of SZ, aiming to reduce suicidality in this vulnerable population.

Adverse effect of Abuse During Childhood on Criminal Behavior and Type of Crime among Prisoners at Forensic Mental Health Department

A quantitative approach using a descriptive-analysis design was used in the present study to find out the impact of child abuse on criminal behavior among prisoners in the forensic department. The period of the study was from 16th of October 2023 to 10th of June 2024. The study has been conducted at Al-Rashad Training Hospital which is located in of Baghdad City. Non-probability sampling techniques in which prisoners are selected because they have characteristics that we need in our sample. In other words, prisoners are selected “on purpose” as purposive sampling. Also the judgmental sampling, this sampling method relies on our judgment when identifying and selecting the prisoners that can provide the best information to achieve the study’s objectives. We choose purposive sampling because the researcher wants to focus in-depth on relatively small samples. A purposive sample of (110) prisoners was selected from Al-Rashad Training Hospital. The study sample in this research was selected from prisoners in the forensic department in the hospital. Results: Prisoners have moderate to high level of psychological abuse during childhood. They have moderate to high level of physical abuse during childhood. prisoners having moderate to high level of sexual abuse during childhood. Also they have moderate to high level of neglect during childhood. As overall prisoners have high level of abuse during childhood. prisoners having moderate to high level of criminal behavior subdomain (socialization). related to criminal behavior subdomain (Social conditions) among prisoners; the findings indicates that prisoners having moderate to high level of criminal behavior subdomain (Social conditions) among items. The findings indicates that prisoners having moderate to high level of criminal behavior subdomain (Personal and psychological circumstances) among items. Prisoners have high level of criminal behavior as overall. There is high significant relationship between Abuse during childhood and Criminal behavior at p-value= .004. There are significant relationships between (psychological, physical, sexual abuse) during childhood and criminal behavior at p-value= 0.05. There are no significant relationships between neglect during childhood and criminal behavior. There is no significant relationship between Abuse during childhood and type of crime at p-value= .05.

Untold Stories of Displaced Rohingya Pregnant Women Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence in Camp Settings

Intimate partner violence (IPV) strongly impacts the physical, sexual, social, and reproductive health of women, causing an array of psychological and behavioural problems. During pregnancy, the detrimental effects of violence extend to both the mother and the child. Rates of IPV are frequently higher among those in conflict‐affected and displaced communities, most of whom live in low and middle‐income countries. IPV against Rohingya women is common due to relocation, family breakups, patriarchal norms, and deep‐seated gender roles. Despite the high prevalence of IPV in Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, the matter is often under‐examined. This qualitative study aims to explore and understand pregnant IPV victims’ unique experiences and hardships among the displaced population in a camp setting. A sample of six pregnant homemakers with no formal education was recruited from a healthcare service provider in Leda Camp 24, a remote camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Semi‐structured, in‐depth, face‐to‐face interviews were conducted. Participants reported diverse manifestations of IPV victimisation. Physical abuse, emotional abuse, economic abuse, sexual abuse, pregnancy‐related consequences, and impact on mental health were commonly experienced by participants of this study. The current research investigates the recurrent abuse experienced by this demography, providing detailed narrative information beyond quantitative descriptions of IPV experiences. This article contributes to the existing knowledge on the intersection of IPV, pregnancy, and mental health among displaced populations. Governmental and non‐governmental stakeholders must contextualise these findings in policies and practices by integrating IPV and violence screening, prevention, and treatment protocols into refugee camps and healthcare service providers.

Teachers’ perceptions of enabling and hindering factors in child abuse disclosures

ContextIt is well argued in literature that teachers are ideally placed to observe and monitor children for signs of abuse and neglect, there are categories of abuse which are more difficult to observe in the school context, such as sexual abuse and rely on children ‘telling’ about their experience. For numerous and complex reasons, children find it difficult to ‘tell’; however, there are enabling factors that support children in this process. AimThe aim of this paper is to outline primary or elementary school teachers’ opinions on the enabling and hindering factors to children talking and telling about abuse in the school environment. MethodsA qualitative research study was undertaken in the Irish context with 21 primary school teachers. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with all participants and as part of each interview, teachers elaborated on the barriers and facilitators which enable children to disclose abuse in the school environment. FindingsParticular barriers to children reporting in the school environment relate to how difficult it is for children to tell, the lack of meaningful collaboration between schools and the Child and Family Agency who have statutory responsibility in the Irish context for dealing with child protection reports and the lack of training available for teachers. Enablers to children telling in the school environment include the relationship of trust built between teacher and child and the implementation of a personal safety skills programme. ImplicationsThis research highlights that teachers can create the conditions that support children talking about abuse and they must be properly supported and adequately trained to support them in doing so.

Assessment of Sexual Violence against Girls and Young Women with Disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review

This review looks into the prevalence of sexual violence against disabled girls and young women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding this issue is vital for meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which seek to eliminate all forms of violence in the region. The research specifically examines the nature of sexual violence faced by girls and young women with disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa. To achieve the desired outcomes, a comprehensive desk review was carried out on the subject of sexual violence against this demographic. The study highlights factors that contribute to vulnerability, the environments where offenders operate, the repercussions of sexual abuse, and the coping strategies employed by victims. The findings indicate that girls and young women with disabilities are at a heightened risk of sexual abuse due to perceptions of weakness and a lack of adequate protection. Additionally, disability and poverty further exacerbate the risk of gender-based violence. It was found that many women with disabilities experienced sexual abuse due to circumstances such as limited mobility, financial hardship, familial rejection, and unemployment, which often confined them to their homes and made them easy targets. In terms of repercussions, sexual violence has been linked to unintended pregnancies, homelessness, divorce, and challenges in finding marriage partners. There is a pressing need for further research to guide policymakers in implementing effective multi-sectoral strategies that support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at reducing all forms of violence in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Children: A Narrative Review

Method: This narrative review summarizes research from the years 2019-2024 on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in children. Results: This research suggests that prevalence rates have been highly variable as a function of the stress experienced, for example, post-surgery (15%), following exposure to war (28%) and following head injury (34%). The negative effects have included cognitive dysfunction, aggression and other behavioral difficulties and the comorbidities include sleep disorders, somatic symptoms and depression. Predictors/risk factors have been the primary focus in this literature and have included parent risk factors including exposure to intimate partner violence, sexual and emotional abuse. Sensory modulation and cognitive processes have been implicated as, for example, negative attention bias and subjective threat. Injuries and hospitalizations have been predictors as has been exposure to explosions and earthquakes. The most frequently studied intervention has been cognitive behavioral therapy which has consistently reduced the symptoms of PTSD. Potential underlying biological mechanisms have included parent PTSD, pregnancy inflammation, and autonomic dysregulation including low cortisol and heartrate, although reduced cortical thickness (volume) in several areas of the brain has been the most frequently studied potential mechanism. Discussion: The studies in this review highlight the prevalence and severity of posttraumatic stress disorder in children. However, they have been primarily based on mixed-age child and adolescent samples and the results have varied by the type of stress experienced and the severity of the stress.

Perlindungan Hukum Terhadap Anak Yang Menjadi Korban Tindak Pidana Pencabulan

Introduction: The criminal act of molestation of children is a crime that violates morality, immorality and religion.Purposes of the Research: analyze the form of legal protection for children who are victims of criminal acts of obscenity, and to be able to find out the efforts to deal with children who are victims of criminal acts of obscenity.Methods of the Research: victims of sexual abuse. The type of research used is "Normative Juridical" research, and is descriptive analysis in nature, the research approach uses a statutory approach, a case approach, and a conceptual approach. The technique of collecting legal materials through library research, then analyzing the legal materials used is qualitativeResults of the Research: The implementation of child protection in the form of state responsibility is that the responsibility of the state for the promotion of children's rights is not just a legal responsibility, but a constitutional responsibility and human rights that have been recognized internationally. So it is every member of the community who seeks to protect children according to their abilities with various kinds of efforts in certain situations and conditions. Every citizen is also responsible for implementing child protection for the sake of child welfare, because child protection has a positive influence on parents, family, society, government and the state. Coordination of collaborative child protection activities needs to be carried out in order to prevent an imbalance in overall child protection activities. Efforts to deal with criminal acts of sexual abuse of minors can be carried out in two ways, namely prevention and management if criminal acts of sexual abuse of children have already occurred

The Portuguese Version of Victim Empathy Distortion Scale: Adaptation and Psychometric Properties

AbstractVictim empathy is a common intervention target in intervention programs designed for individuals who perpetrated child sexual abuse (CSA). Researchers have developed the Victim Empathy Distortion Scale (VES), an instrument designed to assess empathy for victims of CSA. The present study aims to adapt the VES for the Portuguese population and examine its psychometric properties. One hundred and twelve individuals who perpetrated CSA and 245 individuals from the community participated in this study. The confirmatory factor analysis did not show satisfactory indices for the structures previously tested. Consequently, the search for an alternative model revealed a two-factor structure, explaining approximately 50% of the total variance. Results also indicated good internal consistency, discriminant validity, and known-groups validity. Overall, the results support the claim that the Portuguese version of the VES is a valuable and psychometrically reliable instrument for measuring victim empathy in forensic and non-forensic settings.

National Service Line for Incarcerated Survivors of Sexual Abuse Program (DOJ)

National Service Line for Incarcerated Survivors of Sexual Abuse Program (DOJ)

Investigation Of The Relationship Between School Administrators 'Attitudes Towards Reporting Child Sexual Abuse And Self-Efficacy Perceptions

This study aims to investigate the relationship between school administrators' attitudes towards reporting child sexual abuse and their self-efficacy perceptions. The research, involved a sample of 205 school administrators working at various levels in the Rize province. The research utilized the relational survey model, a quantitative research method. Data collection tools included the Demographic Information Form, the Attitude Scale towards Reporting Child Sexual Abuse, and the School Administrators' Self-Efficacy Perceptions Scale. The findings revealed a positive and moderately significant relationship between school administrators' attitudes towards reporting child sexual abuse and their self-efficacy perceptions. Additionally, the study concluded that self-efficacy perceptions significantly predicted school administrators' attitudes towards reporting child sexual abuse.