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The Prevalence of Sexual Abuse Among Adolescents in School

Elizabeth M. Saewyc, RN, PHN, PhD, is an assistant professor for the Center for Adolescent Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

Sandra Pettingell, PhD

Sandra Pettingell, PhD, is a research associate in the Center for Adolescent Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

Lara L. Magee, RN, PHN, BSN

Lara L. Magee, RN, PHN, BSN is a research assistant in the Center for Adolescent Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

Sexual abuse is a profound stressor that complicates the development and health of adolescents, yet its prevalence has been difficult to estimate among adolescents in school populations. This study explored the prevalence of both incest and nonfamily abuse in 2 cohorts of adolescents in Minnesota in the 1990s (1992: N = 77,374; 1998: N = 81,247). Findings indicate that sexual abuse was reported by both boys and girls and among students of all ethnic groups. Approximately 10% of adolescents reported sexual abuse in each cohort, with girls 5 times more likely to report abuse than boys. Ethnic variation was minor, with African American, Native American, and Hispanic teens slightly more likely to report abuse than White or Asian American youth. School nurses should routinely assess for a history of sexual abuse in adolescents and should be prepared to provide support and referral for abused students and their families.). Findings indicate that sexual abuse was reported by both boys and girls and among students of all ethnic groups. Approximately 10% of adolescents reported sexual abuse in each cohort, with girls 5 times more likely to report abuse than boys. Ethnic variation was minor, with African American, Native American, and Hispanic teens slightly more likely to report abuse than White or Asian American youth. School nurses should routinely assess for a history of sexual abuse in adolescents and should be prepared to provide support and referral for abused students and their families.

Key Words: adolescents • incest • population surveys • school health • sexual abuse

The Journal of School Nursing, Vol. 19, No. 5, 266-272 (2003)
DOI: 10.1177/10598405030190050401


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