Articles tagged with Sexual Abuse
Current responses to teenagers sharing sexual images are often fragmented, punitive, and poorly equipped to address evolving threats like sextortion and deepfakes. Researchers propose a new approach called 'safe uncertainty,' which prioritizes restoring safety, dignity, and trust in cases of image-based sexual abuse.
A national study finds that over half of US adults have experienced physical violence and nearly half have experienced sexual violence, with stark disparities in who experiences violence and its link to economic hardship, mental health, and substance use. The study highlights the need for a broader strategy to prevent violence, address...
A new study found that childhood maltreatment can increase the risk of intimate partner violence victimization in young adulthood. The researchers identified three main psychological characteristics: low subjective wellbeing, conduct problems, and aggression.
A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that child abuse is associated with disrupted development and decreased ability to maintain stable bodily functions. The research suggests that different types of maltreatment affect children differently, with boys being more susceptible to negative effects than girls.
A new study from the University of Toronto links childhood sexual abuse to a significantly higher likelihood of cancer later in life. Researchers found that those who experienced childhood sexual abuse had about twice the odds of reporting a cancer diagnosis compared to the general population.
A recent study examines the mechanisms behind Japan's prolonged silence on Johnny Kitagawa's crimes, characterizing it as a 'conspiracy of silence.' The research reveals that structural factors, including media networks and government policies, contributed to this silence. Key findings include the avoidance of negative coverage by tele...
New research from UT Arlington highlights critical gaps in forensic nursing and the challenges rural nurses face in becoming certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). With limited resources and low case volume in rural areas, tele-mentoring is proposed as a possible solution to support newly trained SANEs.
Violence against women and children is linked to 14 conditions and 8 negative health outcomes, resulting in significant health loss worldwide. The study estimates that nearly 30,000 women were killed by their partners in 2023 alone.
A recent study by University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign professor Moses Okumu found that nearly 36% of forcibly displaced adolescent girls and young women in Kampala, Uganda, reported nonconsensual first sexual experiences, leading to cycles of sexual and physical violence. The research highlights critical gaps in comprehensive se...
This cohort study found a high risk of developing functional somatic disorder (FSD) in individuals with a history of sexual assault. The pooled analysis underscores the biopsychosocial consequences of sexual assault and highlights the importance of further research and targeted interventions to address this critical issue.
A new study finds that college women ages 18-24 are 74% more likely to experience sexual violence than non-college women. The highest prevalence was among women living on-campus, with an estimated 1 in 100 reporting an instance of sexual violence.
Experts argue that the current process for managing sexual misconduct by doctors in the UK is inconsistent and relies too heavily on subjective evidence. This can lead to varying sanctions being imposed on doctors found guilty, with some cases receiving lenient punishments compared to those proposed by the General Medical Council.
Research from the University of Birmingham finds that party tourism creates an environment for sexual assault by normalizing extreme behavior and prioritizing economic revenue over women's safety. The study highlights how destinations silence victims to protect their reputation, reinforcing a culture of silencing survivors.
A multi-country study found that extreme droughts in Low Income Countries (LMICs) are associated with an increase in sexual violence against adolescent girls and young women. The study highlights the indirect impact of climate change on social vulnerabilities in these regions.
A new report reveals that over half of UK child sexual abuse survivors have not received support, highlighting a critical gap in local systems. The survey also found that many victims were first subjected to abuse at a young age and struggled with disclosure and healing.
A new study of over 700 incarcerated women reveals that rape is a significant predictor of incarceration, with victims more than 4 times as likely to be incarcerated as non-victims. The study also found that severe abuse can lead to early school dropout and increased crime.
A recent study by University of Fukui researchers found that impaired empathy in parents who experienced childhood trauma increases the risk of abusive parenting, perpetuating a cycle of abuse. The study highlights the importance of targeted interventions, such as mental health support and parenting programs, to break this cycle.
A study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that defendants receive lighter sentences when victims are described with rape myths, such as 'scantily clad' or 'being promiscuous'. This correlation holds true even with medical evidence and violence involved. The researchers aim to raise awareness about the use of exper...
A new study published in Child Maltreatment found that adults who experienced childhood physical and sexual abuse had double the odds of developing health and mental health conditions. The presence of a protective adult in the home was associated with better long-term health outcomes among children who experienced abuse.
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that coordinated, community-wide primary prevention efforts can significantly reduce child sexual abuse rates. The study showed a 17% decrease in substantiated cases and a 34% drop in unsubstantiated cases compared to a control group.
A community-wide preventive intervention significantly reduced reported cases of both substantiated and unsubstantiated child sexual abuse at the population level. The study's findings suggest that targeted interventions can effectively mitigate child sexual abuse rates.
A survey of NCAA athletes found that nearly 1 in 5 reported experiencing abusive coaching behaviors, with a higher risk among those in team sports and with disabilities. Coaches who were attentive to athlete needs and communicated respectfully had a lower risk of being reported as abusive.
A recent study found that individuals charged with sexual offenses against adults are at high risk of committing crimes against children, with up to 40% reporting interest in violent acts against minors. The study also identified effective prevention methods and a model of peer support for parents of child victims.
A recent study by researchers from the University of Toronto found that older adults who experienced parental divorce during childhood have a 60% higher odds of stroke. The study controlled for known risk factors and still showed a strong association between parental divorce and stroke.
A study by Technical University of Munich finds that digital violence discourages political participation, particularly among women, who experience sexualized online attacks. The survey shows that more than half of those affected modify their behavior, including giving up on politics entirely.
A systematic review and meta-analysis highlights the alarming burden of child sexual violence worldwide. The findings underscore the urgent need to improve data collection efforts, particularly in under-researched regions and among boys.
A new study reveals that more than half of US college students experience alcohol-related harms caused by others. The findings show that students who identified as White, cisfemale, or transgender, and those living with roommates, were at greater risk. Commonly reported harms included social harm, sleep disruptions, and emotional hurt.
A study by the University of Southampton found that police investigators of Child Sexual Abuse Material experience high levels of depression and anxiety, with feelings of betrayal by colleagues and institutions being a significant predictor. In contrast, feeling successful and supported at work can act as a powerful buffer to these out...
A study of 1,264 case files found that adult survivors of commercial sexual exploitation had high rates of mental health diagnoses and lower educational achievements. Childhood abuse, history of arrest, and age at entry were also associated with longer exploitation periods.
A UCL study reveals that unregulated experts appointed by family courts in England and Wales have caused devastating harm to children, separating them from their mothers and forcing them to live with abusive fathers. The 'alienation' belief system has become a legal weapon that punishes and controls those who speak up about abuse.
A new study from the University of Toronto finds that childhood neglect is associated with a range of mental and physical health problems in adulthood. The presence of a supportive adult and higher socioeconomic status largely attenuate this relationship.
A UK survey found that most young adults view non-consensual condom removal during sex as wrong and a violation of consent. The study, which surveyed 18-25-year-olds, also showed that nearly all participants considered it a form of sexual assault.
A retrospective study found that 7% of teens who disclosed sexual abuse reported social media was used to facilitate the assault. When accounting for unrelated perpetrators, this number increased to 12%. Social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat were commonly reported as facilitators.
A new approach developed by researchers could streamline the forensic analysis pipeline and reduce delays in processing DNA evidence. The technique, using differential digestion with digital microfluidics, simplifies the process of isolating an assailant's DNA from a single sample, reducing manual steps from 13 to five.
Researchers found that 49% of respondents experienced a moderate to extreme impact on their mental or emotional wellbeing after encountering negative experiences in virtual environments. The study highlights the need for metaverse companies to instill clear regulatory frameworks for safe virtual spaces.
A survey of 5,991 participants found presumptive PTSD to be prevalent long after mass violence incidents, emphasizing the need for comprehensive screening efforts. The study suggests that MVIs have persistent impacts on communities, particularly those with prior exposure to trauma.
A global scoping review reveals that women in the healthcare workforce are more likely to experience verbal abuse, sexual harassment, and bullying. Men, on the other hand, face higher rates of physical violence in the workplace.
A survey study found that transgender men are particularly vulnerable to all forms of violence, highlighting the need for targeted prevention and intervention services. The results emphasize the importance of policies protecting trans and gender-diverse individuals from discriminatory violence.
A new study reveals extraordinary acts of kindness from strangers who risked their lives to protect and help forced migrant survivors. Everyday kindness, such as offers of shelter and food, also played a crucial role in their journeys.
A global study found 14.5% of respondents reported being victims of sextortion, while 4.8% admitted to being perpetrators. LGBTQ+ people and men were more likely to report victimisation and perpetration.
A new study by Uppsala University researchers reveals that women are disproportionately affected by post-war peace processes, experiencing re-traumatization and stigma. The findings emphasize the importance of including women's perspectives in the design of peace agreements to ensure more sustainable outcomes.
A recent study by University of Houston sleep expert Candice Alfano found that weighted blankets do not improve sleep for children who have experienced various types of maltreatment, including abuse or neglect. Despite the popularity of weighted blankets as a sleep aid, research has been lacking on their effectiveness in this population.
A recent study by researchers at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) found that female judges tend to hand down longer sentences in cases involving sexual abuse and assault. The study analyzed over 2,200 cases and concluded that the sex of the presiding judge has a significant impact on sentence length.
A study by Ankita Gupta found a high prevalence of harassment in obstetrics and gynecology, with many women facing abuse and discrimination in the workplace. The research suggests that measures need to be taken to create a safer environment for women in OB-GYN
A recent study on the Tor network found that one in five onion domains shared child sexual abuse material. The researchers also discovered that users sought CSAM through popular search engines and found that viewing violent material correlates with addiction, while seeking help is often hindered by lack of resources.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet has found a clear link between childhood adversity and the risk of mental illness later in life. The research suggests that genetics and environment play a significant role in contributing to adult psychiatric disorders, highlighting the need for targeted health care interventions within families ...
Only half of European countries have national guidelines for treating child victims of sexual abuse, leading to unequal and potentially severe consequences. The existing guidelines are often outdated and fail to incorporate the latest scientific insights.
Research indicates nearly six million American women experienced unintended pregnancies as a result of rape and/or sexual coercion. The study also found that a significant portion of these women reported injuries, STDs, and felt fearful or concerned for their safety after the incidents.
Boston University School of Public Health researchers Sondra Crosby and Leonard Glantz denounce rectal feeding practices at CIA secret prisons, equating them to torture. They call for medical officers who authorized or participated in these nonconsensual practices to be held accountable for violating ethical and legal standards.
A recent study by Chung-Ang University reveals that lack of success in previous intervention attempts and negative emotions are significant barriers hindering bystander interventions. The research highlights the need for targeted education programs to address these barriers, particularly among university students and those experiencing...
Research found elevated risks between intimate partner violence and childhood sexual abuse and various health conditions. Intimate partner violence was associated with increased risk of major depressive disorders, maternal abortion, and alcohol misuse, while childhood sexual abuse linked to increased risk of self-harm and alcohol use.
A new study found that adverse childhood experiences are associated with greater muscle dysmorphia symptoms in Canadian adolescents and young adults. Adverse childhood experiences, such as domestic violence and emotional abuse, may lead to body dissatisfaction and the pursuit of muscularity as a coping mechanism.
A University of Pittsburgh study found a significant link between childhood trauma and higher odds of COVID-19 hospitalization and mortality in adulthood. Adults who reported higher levels of childhood adversity, such as abuse or neglect, were 12-25% more likely to be hospitalized or die from COVID-19.
A three-year USDA grant will train healthcare and social workers in five high-risk rural Missouri counties to address childhood trauma and reduce opioid overdoses. The training covers topics such as ACEs, positive childhood experiences, and trauma-informed care.
Researchers studied 1,500 middle-aged women and found that those with four or more adverse childhood experiences were nearly twice as likely to be sexually inactive. The study also showed that these women were two times more likely to experience sexual dysfunction in midlife. Healthcare providers are encouraged to screen for childhood ...
A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine documents a consistent risk level across race and gender for victims of partner violence and child abuse. The risk is similar among adult males and females and lower income Black and White Americans, increasing by 20-35% compared to those without interpersonal violence.
A new study from Florida Atlantic University compares the characteristics and risk factors of youth detained for running away or sex trafficking to those detained for more serious offenses. The research found significant differences in abuse rates, polyvictimization, and other factors between the two groups.
A recent study found that young men who regularly consume sports media are more likely to accept rape myths, even after accounting for negative masculine norms. The researchers suggest that the production of sports media around athletic events contributes to this connection, portraying men as hyper-masculine aggressors and women as tro...
Research published in Children and Youth Services Review found that approximately two-thirds (63%) of adult survivors of childhood physical abuse are in complete mental health. Barriers to achieving this include a lack of social support, chronic pain, and a history of mental illness like depression or substance use disorders.
A new study found that factors such as substance use, housing insecurity, and intimate partner violence are linked to an increased risk of both parents being involved in physical or sexual abuse. However, other risk factors like economic insecurity and parental mental health problems were not associated with any type of maltreatment.