Adolescent sexual assault: an update of the literature

Carla Kmett Danielson · Melisa M. Holmes

72 citations0/0 files storedCurrent Opinion in Obstetrics & Gynecology

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Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Child Abuse and Trauma

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In this review, we examine the most recent literature on adolescent sexual assault, and summarize new findings regarding prevalence, risk factors, sequelae, cultural factors, genital injury, legal issues and practice implications. RECENT FINDINGS: Child and adolescent sexual-assault victims are at risk for a range of negative outcomes, including comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder and major depressive episode, comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder and substance abuse, eating disorders, delinquency, and revictimization. Cultural factors and severity levels of trauma may serve as risk factors to such outcomes in adolescent sexual-assault victims. Compared with adults, adolescent sexual-assault victims have a greater frequency of rape-related anogenital injuries, but data on healing of injuries in this population are lacking. Factors related to a child sexual-assault victim's demeanor and intelligence can influence the perceived credibility of the child as a witness to the abuse. SUMMARY: Recent studies investigating prevalence, risk factors, and sequelae of child and adolescent sexual assault highlight the need for educational programs and primary prevention interventions to educate pre-pubescent children and adolescents about sexuality, including sexual assault. In addition, further research is warranted in the area of statutory rape reporting to determine its effects on adolescent health-service-seeking behaviors and outcomes. Although most adolescent sexual assault victims do not seek acute post-rape medical care, forensic nurse examiners are often the first clinicians to encounter the adolescent sexual assault victim. Nursing protocols that standardize evidence collection as well as psychological support are important in the comprehensive care of these traumatized teens.

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References

1993Impact of sexual abuse on children: A review and synthesis of recent empirical studies.1994The emergence of gender differences in depression during adolescence.2003Violence and risk of PTSD, major depression, substance abuse/dependence, and comorbidity: Results from the National Survey of Adolescents.1999Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Abused and Neglected Children Grown Up 2003A Longitudinal Perspective on Dating Violence Among Adolescent and College-Age Women 1996Cumulative trauma: The impact of child sexual abuse, adult sexual assault, and spouse abuse 1996The Long-Term Sequelae of Childhood Sexual Abuse in Women: A Meta-Analytic Review 2002Date violence and date rape among adolescents: associations with disordered eating behaviors and psychological health

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2019School Restroom and Locker Room Restrictions and Sexual Assault Risk Among Transgender Youth 2007Age at Sexual Assault And Posttraumatic Stress Disorder among Women: Prevalence, Correlates, And Implications for Prevention 2015A 6-Week School Curriculum Improves Boys’ Attitudes and Behaviors Related to Gender-Based Violence in Kenya 2006Sexual violence

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