- Global Trends in Childhood Sexual Abuse and Bullying Victimization in 204 Countries: A Comprehensive Analysis From 1990 to 2019
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Nasrin Borumandnia, Mohammadamin Sabbagh Alvani, Payam Fattahi, Mahmood Reza Gohari, Yashar Kheirolahkhani, Hamid Alavimajd
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J Prev Med Public Health. 2024;57(6):530-539. Published online August 15, 2024
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.24.007
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 Abstract
Summary
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- Objectives
No comprehensive analysis has yet been published regarding global trends in childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and bullying victimization (BV). The present study offers a longitudinal perspective on their prevalence worldwide.
Methods
CSA and BV rates were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease study, spanning the years 1990 to 2019 across 204 countries. Trends by gender, region, and human development index (HDI) were examined.
Results
For both boys and girls, and in both high-HDI and low-HDI countries, CSA rates did not significantly change from 1990 to 2019 (p>0.05). However, BV rates increased significantly in high-HDI and low-HDI countries for both genders (p<0.001). Subsequently, we analyzed trends separately by gender across all countries, without considering development level. In this analysis, CSA rates among girls decreased from 1990 to 2000, followed by an increasing tendency after 2000; overall, an upward trend was evident between 1990 and 2019 (p=0.029). In contrast, no significant pattern was observed for boys. Notably, BV demonstrated an increasing trend across all regions when HDI was not considered (p<0.05), with African populations experiencing the most pronounced rise (p<0.001). Globally, boys consistently exhibited higher BV rates than girls.
Conclusions
Our research indicates that, on a global scale, rates of CSA among girls have been rising. Additionally, BV rates have increased in all regions for both boys and girls. Notably, this trend in BV rates is occurring irrespective of HDI. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted interventions in areas with high rates of CSA and BV.
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Summary
Key Message
This study analyzes global trends in childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and bullying victimization (BV) from 1990 to 2019 across 204 countries. Results indicate a significant rise in BV rates globally, with boys consistently exhibiting higher rates than girls. While CSA rates among girls show an upward trend, no significant change is observed for boys. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to address CSA and BV worldwide.
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