The prevalence of child sexual abuse in community and student samples: A meta-analysis

The prevalence of child sexual abuse in community and student samples: A meta-analysis

2009 | Noemí Pereda, Georgina Guílera, Maria Forns, Juana Gómez-Benito
A meta-analysis of child sexual abuse prevalence across 22 countries found that 7.9% of men and 19.7% of women had experienced sexual abuse before age 18. These rates, based on 65 studies, indicate that child sexual abuse is a widespread issue globally. The analysis considered various moderator variables, including gender, geographic region, economic status, and definitions of abuse. Results showed higher prevalence in Africa (34.4%) compared to Europe (9.2%). While gender differences were significant, with women more likely to have been abused, the study found no consistent effect of the definition of abuse or childhood age on prevalence rates. The study also noted that the prevalence of abuse varied by country, with South Africa reporting the highest rates for both men and women. Despite these findings, the study acknowledged limitations, including potential underreporting due to social stigma and the use of retrospective data. The results highlight the need for further research to better understand the factors influencing prevalence rates and to develop effective prevention strategies.A meta-analysis of child sexual abuse prevalence across 22 countries found that 7.9% of men and 19.7% of women had experienced sexual abuse before age 18. These rates, based on 65 studies, indicate that child sexual abuse is a widespread issue globally. The analysis considered various moderator variables, including gender, geographic region, economic status, and definitions of abuse. Results showed higher prevalence in Africa (34.4%) compared to Europe (9.2%). While gender differences were significant, with women more likely to have been abused, the study found no consistent effect of the definition of abuse or childhood age on prevalence rates. The study also noted that the prevalence of abuse varied by country, with South Africa reporting the highest rates for both men and women. Despite these findings, the study acknowledged limitations, including potential underreporting due to social stigma and the use of retrospective data. The results highlight the need for further research to better understand the factors influencing prevalence rates and to develop effective prevention strategies.
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