Sexual violence in Catalan adolescents: prevalence, associated factors and health consequences

Abstract

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of sexual violence among Catalan adolescents and its associated factors, as well as examining the relationship between experiencing sexual violence and low mood and risky substance use.

Method

Cross-sectional study conducted with 5900 adolescents (53.2% girls). The main study variables were having experienced sexual violence and reporting unhealthy behaviours or health problems (low mood, daily tobacco consumption and alcohol and cannabis risky consumption). Prevalence rates were estimated for all variables, and Poisson regression models with robust variance were used to analyse potential associations with independent variables.

Results

The prevalence of experienced sexual violence was 30%, with differences between boys (14.1%; 95%CI: 12.8-15.4) and girls (43.3%; 95%CI: 41.6-45.0). Having a minority sexual orientation, early onset of sexual relations, being in a higher academic course, having experienced and exercised bullying, and poor relationship with the parents were associated with experienced sexual violence. Experiencing sexual violence was associated with low mood, daily tobacco consumption and risky alcohol and cannabis consumption for both sexes.

Conclusions

Experiencing sexual violence in adolescence is prevalent, particularly among girls and sexual minorities, and is associated with mental health issues and substance use. The study highlights the need for gender-sensitive healthcare policies that address mental health and social support systems. Comprehensive prevention programs must consider the experiences of gender minorities and the psychosocial factors that contribute to the experience of sexual violence.