[Prevalence and sequelae of childhood sexual abuse in Spain].
The aim of this research was to determine the prevalence of sexual abuse in Spain and its long and short effects. A representative sample of Spanish society was studied (N = 1.821) through proportional stratified random sampling. Data were obtained by interview (Personal History of Sexual Abuse), carried out in the subjects home and by means of a Self Reporting Questionnaire (S.R.Q.), which the interviewer gave the subject to be returned by post. The results show a high prevalence of sexual abuse prior to age 17 (15% of males and 22% of females) with short-term effects (lack of trust, disgust, fear, hostility towards the aggressor, shame, anxiety, etc.) and in long-term a greater tendency towards mental health problems (F = 7.7; p < .01), as well as other problems throughout the life cycle (running away from home, school failure, sexual dissatisfaction, drug-taking, etc.). The high prevalence and the clear long and short effect make prevention programs and help for the victims advisable.
Departamento de Psicología, Universidad de Salamanca, España, Spain.
F
F
López
E
E
Carpintero
A
A
Hernández
M J
MJ
Martín
A
A
Fuertes
D000184:Acting Out; D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002650:Child Abuse, Sexual / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D002653:Child Behavior Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003431:Cross-Cultural Comparison; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D010553:Personality Development; D013030:Spain / Q000453:epidemiology
Prevalencia y consecuencias del abuso sexual al menor en España.