[Addressing sexual violence in health services]. / La violencia sexual y su abordaje en el sistema de salud.

Sexual violence is a very underdetected public health problem, with important short and long-term consequences on physical, mental, social, sexual and reproductive health, which must be taken into account by health services. Health systems are part of the set of resources necessary for a comprehensive approach from the ecological model: prevention and promotion of healthy sexuality with equality, adequate and coordinated care in the event of sexual assault and subsequent support to prevent sequelae. All sexual violence has health consequences, even those that may seem less serious such as sexual harassment or sexual cyberviolence. We must know the needs of the victim and their possible emotional reactions. A risk assessment will be carried out, the victim will be referred to a hospital if necessary and comprehensive and integrated care will be provided. Care and follow-up must focus on the survivor and with professionals trained in trauma to understand the consequences of sexual violence, offer a safe and trusting environment and know how to reinforce their qualities and support.

"I Just Kept It to Myself": The Shaping of Latina Suicidality Through Gendered Oppression, Silence, and Violence.

Suicide is a critical issue among Latina youth. In this study, we use family case analysis to explore how gendered oppression, silencing, and violence shape suicidal behaviors among a sample of Latina daughters (n = 10), and their parents. For comparison, we include family narratives from Latina adolescents with no histories of suicide attempts (n = 10). Results suggest how secrets and silence, as indicative of gendered oppression, may catalyze a suicide attempt. The risks are particularly salient when daughter and mother both have experienced violence that conflicts with gendered cultural scripts. Findings highlight the importance of parental engagement and exploration of histories of violence in the treatment of Latina suicide attempters. Future research should incorporate the risk factors of gendered oppression and violence to better understand the development of suicidality among Latina women.

El suicidio es un problema crítico entre las jóvenes latinas. En este artículo, usamos un análisis de casos familiares para averiguar cómo la opresión de género, el silenciamiento y la violencia determinan conductas suicidas entre una muestra de hijas latinas (n = 10) y sus padres. Para comparar, incluimos relatos familiares de adolescentes latinas sin historias de intentos de suicidio (n = 10). Los resultados sugieren cómo los secretos y el silencio, como indicadores de la opresión de género, pueden catalizar un intento de suicidio. Los riesgos son particularmente prominentes cuando la madre y la hija han sufrido una violencia que contradice los guiones culturales de género. Los resultados destacan la importancia de la participación de los padres y del análisis de las historias de violencia en el tratamiento de mujeres latinas que han intentado suicidarse. Las investigaciones futuras deberían incorporar los factores de riesgo de la opresión de género y de la violencia para comprender mejor el desarrollo de las tendencias suicidas entre las mujeres latinas.

[Sexual violence and young people: "it is not something you are born with, but with what you learn"]. / Violencia sexual y jóvenes: «no es algo con lo que naces, sino con lo que aprendes¼.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the perceptions and experiences of young people in Spain about sexual violence (SV), its possible causes, victims and perpetrators.. METHOD: Qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with 22 young people between 18 and 24 years old. A qualitative content analysis was carried out. RESULTS: In the juvenile narratives, the lack of definition and accuracy about what SV is stands out, except for mentioning rape, lack of consent and use of force in sexual relations. The girls, self-perceived as the main victims, also break with these narratives by providing a broader vision and gender inequalities related. In general, the most prevailed idea is that VS is perpetrated by men against women in heterosexual relationships inside and outside the couple. Regarding explanations, references coexist to both contextual factors (linked to gender inequalities and the social construction of sexual relationships) and behavioural factors (which includes the viewing of pornography). Tentatively proposals for improvement related to sexual and affective education emerge. CONCLUSIONS: In the perceptions of the young people, ambiguity seems to coexist with explicit references to the different ways in which it manifests itself and the influence of gender inequalities. Sex and life experience appear to influence these narratives. It is necessary to promote a more critical perspective on the social construction of SV and intimate relationships in the young population.

Developing and implementing survivor-centred approaches for college student-athletes: perspectives from athletic department, Title IX, and campus advocacy personnel.

ABSTRACTBackground: Sexual violence (SV) is a persistent issue on US college campuses, particularly among college student-athletes. Strategies to address SV are urgently needed. Yet, prior research shows that many university practices can be more harmful than helpful to SV survivors and necessitates a reimagination of how institutions support SV survivors. Survivor-centred approaches may be one way to effectively address SV for students, including student-athletes, across college campuses.Objective: This qualitative study explored campus personnel experiences with and perceptions of survivor-centred SV prevention and intervention policies and practices on college campuses and examined how these approaches serve SV survivors, including college student-athletes.Methods: As part of a larger study on campus SV and student-athletes across four institutions, semi-structured interviews with 22 representatives from athletic departments, campus advocacy, and Title IX were conducted. Guided by phenomenology, a thematic analysis approach was used to identify key patterns in survivor-centred SV prevention and intervention policies and practices. Participant demographic data were analysed descriptively.Results: Most participants identified as white (72.2%), heterosexual (63.6%), women (68.2%), and were an average of 41.8 years old (SD = 10.2). The majority were in positions associated with athletic departments (63.6%), and they had been in their role for an average of 5.6 years (SD = 6.6). Through thematic analysis, three main themes were identified: (1) education & accessibility; (2) interpersonal relationships & individual well-being; and (3) campus and societal norms.Conclusions: The findings from this study highlight clear policy and practice recommendations for survivor-centred SV prevention and intervention on college campuses, such as accessible, applicable SV training and the implementation of survivor-centred approaches. Further research is needed to understand existing survivor-centred practices and the facilitators and barriers to their implementation across institutions and within athletic departments.

Sexual violence is a persistent issue on US college campuses, particularly among college student-athletes. Strategies to address SV are urgently needed. Survivor-centred approaches may offer solutions to better serve survivors of sexual violence, including student-athletes.Through interviews with athletic department, Title IX, and campus advocacy personnel, three themes were identified related to developing and implementing survivor-centred approaches: (1) education & accessibility; (2) interpersonal relationships & individual well-being; and (3) campus and societal norms.Further research is needed to understand existing survivor-centred practices and the facilitators and barriers to their implementation across institutions, particularly for college student-athletes.

Defining military sexual trauma: establishing parameters and perspectives.

Background: The term military sexual trauma [MST] is increasingly used to describe instances of sexual harassment/assault that occur between serving personnel during military service. However, in the absence of a clear universal definition, MST is an increasingly contested term, with confusion about its scope, application to differing jurisdictions and implications for responses and treatment.Objective: This editorial provides a universal definition of MST, decoupled from any national system or framework.Method: Drawing on existing international evidence about the nature and impact of MST.Results and Conclusion: We argue that MST terminology provides a unique framing which recognises the institutional nature of MST victimisation and situates the context, behaviours, and impact on a continuum of violence.

MST terminology provides understanding and acknowledgement of the nuances of sexual harassment/assault in the military institution.MST terminology should encompass a continuum of sexual violence.Drawing on existing military health research, the authors contend that MST should be considered as a distinctive traumatic stressor.

How do young men narrate the redemption story of a sexual assault perpetrator?

Background: Little is known about how young men who have committed sexual assault might acknowledge wrongdoing and eventually change and make amends. There are practical barriers to seeking the real redemption stories of perpetrators.Objective: To explore hypothetical pathways to young men's accountability-taking and amends (i.e. redemption) after perpetration of sexual assault.Method: In a pre-registered, qualitative story completion study, we presented heterosexual, cisgender college men (N = 54) with a date-based sexual assault story written by a fictional male perpetrator. Participants were prompted to complete the story so that the protagonist, who initially denies wrongdoing, eventually changes and becomes a violence prevention advocate.Results: A thematic analysis of the redemption stories revealed that this study's speculative task was a challenging one. Half of the stories did not provide an explanation for how the perpetrator was able to acknowledge wrongdoing. Overall, individualistic themes (e.g. he introspected) were more common than relational, community, or societal facilitators of redemption.Conclusions: Without infrastructure for accountability-taking and repair, or narrative exemplars to draw from in public life, it is difficult to envision redemption from violence. Rare gender-based, structurally attuned analyses of sexual violence in the stories point the way towards a more transformative vision of redemption.

In this qualitative story completion study, college men wrote the redemption story of a fictional sexual assault perpetrator.Men had difficulty explaining how the perpetrator would acknowledge wrongdoing.Redemption themes tended to be individualistic versus rooted in community.

Rethinking sexual violence labels: exploring the impact of 'victim' and 'survivor' discourse.

Background: Universities' responses to sexual violence have faced scrutiny for their lack of proactiveness and their failure to address campus socio-cultural norms that contribute to rape myth acceptance. The labels victim and survivor play a crucial role in shaping attitudes toward sexual violence, but there is limited research on how university students perceive these labels.Objective: This paper explores sexual violence labels and their role in perpetuating rape culture. Undergraduate university students' beliefs on using the label survivor instead of victim to describe someone who has experienced sexual violence were examined to consider how these labels create societal discourse on sexual violence.Method: The study draws on qualitative data collected from undergraduate students in Canada and the United States through open-response questions in an interactive textbook. Data were analysed and interpreted using a multi-method approach that combined principles of Critical Discourse Analysis and Feminist Poststructuralism. Direct quotes and word clouds from participants' responses are used as evidence and to visually display discourse.Results: Findings revealed that participants recognised the negative societal discourses associated with the label victim and supported using survivor to challenge perceptions of sexual violence. Despite this, participants expressed hesitancy to adopt the label survivor because of the potential negative implications, such as the label promoting the allocation of individual blame, increasing barriers to justice, and reducing the perceived severity of sexual violence.Conclusions: This study underscores the complexities of sexual violence labels, the influence of language in shaping societal perceptions, and the need for a more comprehensive and equitable approach to responding to sexual violence.

Dichotomy of Labels and Nuanced Perceptions: Sexual violence labels shape identity perceptions. Participants dichotomised the labels victim and survivor, associating one with negative attributes and the other with positive attributes. However, nuanced views of how people perceive and identify with these labels challenge distinct categories. Victims being negatively perceived, while survivors are admired for their resiliency highlights complexities in societal expectations that may not fully address the underlying determinants of sexual violence.Role of Language in Reproduction of Rape Culture: Poststructuralist theories emphasise the role of language in the production and maintenance of discourse. The study shows that victim discourse is steeped in rape myths. The historical discourse surrounding the label may contribute to the perpetuation of negative attitudes and behaviours toward victims of sexual violence. The emergence of the label survivor reflects a societal shift, but findings suggest this may lead to societal complacency towards sexual violence.Spectrum of Severity and Societal Empathy: Participants' understanding of sexual violence as a spectrum of severity may lead to unequal levels of empathy and support. This discourse creates positions of dominance and oppression, potentially marginalising certain groups who are disproportionately affected by sexual violence. The study highlights how severity discourse can influence institutional agendas and may result in political and institutional neglect of sexual violence.

Wellbeing and illbeing in women exposed to physical and sexual violence during peripregnancy: a population-based longitudinal study.

Background: Physical and sexual violence against pregnant women have been associated with detrimental mental health outcomes for victims. Few studies have examined both positive (wellbeing) and negative (illbeing) mental health indicators in the same sample. Additionally, the literature assessing mental health based on different forms of violence is limited.Objective: To compare both wellbeing (life satisfaction) and illbeing (anxiety and depression) trajectories between non-victimized and victims of physical, sexual and both forms of violence that occurred during or shortly before pregnancy. Further, we analyse whether social support moderates these trajectories.Method: This longitudinal study is based on the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort, including the period from early pregnancy to toddlerhood (3 years). We compared wellbeing and illbeing trajectories of non-victims (n = 73,081), victims of physical abuse (n = 1076), sexual abuse (n = 683), and both forms of abuse (n = 107) using Growth Curve Modelling. Finally, social support was included as a moderator of wellbeing and illbeing trajectories.Results: Results indicated that victims scored systematically lower in wellbeing and higher in illbeing. Exposure to violence did not significantly change the wellbeing trajectory, pointing to similar developments in wellbeing among victims and non-victims for the considered period. On the other hand, different trajectories in illbeing occurred between victims and non-victims, as well as between victimized groups. Victims experienced greater change in illbeing scores, with a steeper decrease in illbeing compared to non-victims. Both victims and non-victims returned to respective baseline scores 3 years after birth. All women benefited from social support, but victims of physical abuse were particularly protected by social support.Conclusions: There is an alarming persistence of mental health problems in women exposed to violence during peripregnancy. Different forms of violence differentially impact women's mental health. Social support is beneficial among all pregnant women.

Victims of peripregnancy violence score systematic lower in wellbeing over time than non-victims. However, the wellbeing trajectories among victims and non-victims are similar.On the other hand, illbeing (anxiety and depression) trajectories differ for non-victims and victims of physical, sexual and both forms of violence. All women decreased their levels of illbeing from pregnancy to the first 6 months postpartum, but victims had a steeper decrease during this period compared to non-victims.All women benefited from social support, but victims of physical abuse were particularly protected by social support.

[Barriers and proposals for a health care approach to trafficking for sexual exploitation]. / Barreras y propuestas para el abordaje sanitario de la trata con fines de explotación sexual.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the perception of the trafficking in women for sexual exploitation, identify the difficulties and collect the proposals of professionals in direct contact with the victims of trafficking in women for sexual exploitation in Andalusia (Spain). METHOD: Qualitative study based on interviews with 10 key informants, selected from organizations providing support and care to victims of trafficking in women for sexual exploitation in 2021. Two researchers carried out a thematic categorical content analysis, integrative and relational analysis. Three themes with different sub-themes were analyzed. RESULTS: Difficulties have been identified in relation to women (delay in recognizing themselves as victims, cultural differences, distrust of the system), traffickers (modification of strategies), health professionals (lack of sensitivity and lack of homogeneity in actions) and the health system (lack of cultural intermediation, administrative complexity). The key informants propose more training for professionals, the use of effective action protocols and better coordination between institutions. CONCLUSIONS: The health sector faces a number of challenges in responding comprehensively and effectively to trafficking in women for sexual exploitation. Improvements are needed in raising awareness among health professionals, the development of standardized protocols, greater collaboration between sectors, the provision of specialized mental health services and effective cultural mediation.

[Sexual attitudes and violence in students of the University of Huelva]. / Actitudes sexuales y violencia en estudiantes de la Universidad de Huelva.

INTRODUCTION: Sexual attitudes are related to the norms and customs that are considered appropriate according to the era in which one lives, usually showing themselves more restrictive for women. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to analyze how sexual attitudes (erotophilia-erotophobia and sexual double standards) may predispose to sexual violence (attitudes in favor of rape). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 868 students from the University of Huelva (723 women and 145 men), aged between 17 and 57 years. The Double Moral Scale, the Rape Favorable Attitude Scale and the Revised Sexual Opinion Survey were used. RESULTS: People who are more erotophilic are bisexuals (x̄=99.10) and people who consider themselves left-wing in politics (x̄=96.91). The highest double standards scores are obtained by men (x̄=18.50), master's students (x̄=18.58), asexuals (x̄=20.50) and people who consider themselves centrist (x̄=18.24). In terms of pro-rape attitudes, men (x̄=37.72), heterosexuals (x̄=33.29) and people who consider themselves right-wing (x̄=37.35) stand out. The differences found between the groups are statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: It is confirmed that sexual attitudes can predispose to sexual violence, which shows the need to continue working in this line in order to promote pleasurable sexual experiences.

Preventing sexual violence in sexual orientation and gender diverse communities: A call to action.

Background: Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual orientation and gender diverse (SOGD) communities are at disproportionately higher risk for sexual violence compared to cisgender heterosexual people. Despite this elevated risk, relatively few sexual violence prevention efforts effectively reduce these victimization disparities based on sexual orientation or gender identity.Objective: This narrative review provides an overview of the prevalence of sexual violence in the SOGD communities, delineates risk factors for sexual victimization among SOGD community members, and reviews and evaluates existing prevention efforts for the SOGD communities. We outline specific recommendations for ensuring that prevention efforts meet the needs of the SOGD communities.Method: Drawing on ecological systems theory and public health approaches to sexual violence prevention, we outline current approaches and opportunities for preventionists and scholars to push the field forward.Results: There have been promising prevention programmes designed to be implemented within SOGD communities specifically; however, it is important that general primary prevention programmes endeavour to specifically address sexual violence perpetrated against SOGD people. While many packaged programmes that endeavour to prevent sexual violence across all gender identities and sexual orientations are inclusive of SOGD participants, more programming is needed that integrates anti-oppression training to target social norms that perpetuate SOGD-specific rape myths and normalize sexual violence against SOGD community members.Conclusion: Ecological prevention strategies in line with a public health approach for primary prevention may be particularly valuable for reducing victimization disparities based on SOGD status and identity. Comprehensive sexual education and anti-discrimination policies should be considered front-line prevention programming. To assess if these strategies are effective, the implementation of large-scale surveillance surveys that use comprehensive assessments of sexual orientation, gender identity, and sexual violence are needed. Using theoretically grounded implementation strategies for prevention programmes can ensure effective programme delivery.

Despite their increased vulnerability, relatively few prevention strategies that specifically aim to reduce sexual violence among sexual and gender diverse (SOGD) communities and existing packaged programmes are less effective for preventing victimization among SOGD than for cisgender, heterosexual groups.Packaged prevention programmes should continue adapting with the specific aims to reduce these SOGD-based disparities.Broader changes at the outer layer of the social-ecological model (e.g. anti-discrimination, anti-bullying, inclusive sex-education) are critical primary prevention approaches to reduce SOGD-based sexual violence disparities.

Sexual violence affects adolescents' health and prosocial behaviour beyond other violence exposure.

Background: Sexual violence is a public health issue among adolescents globally but remains understudied in Sub-Saharan Africa.Objective: The present study focused on the association of cumulative exposure to different types of sexual violence with mental and physical health problems and prosocial behaviour.Method: We conducted a survey with a regionally representative sample of both in-school and out-of-school adolescents, aged 13-17 years, living in south-western Nigeria. Self-reported exposure to sexual violence, behavioural problems, physical complaints, and prosocial behaviour were assessed.Results: About three quarters of the participants reported the experience of sexual violence (74.6%). Multiple regression models revealed that the more types of sexual violence an individual reported, the more mental and physical health problems, and the fewer prosocial behaviours they reported when controlling for other forms of violence exposure. Latent class analysis revealed three severity classes of sexual violence. Symptoms of mental and physical health indicators were significantly higher as exposure increased by group whereas prosocial behaviours were non-significantly fewer in the opposite direction.Conclusion: This study revealed a consistent and unique relation between sexual violence exposure and negative health outcomes among adolescents. Further research on sexual violence in Sub-Saharan Africa and its associations is needed.

Sexual violence is associated with health problems and prosocial behaviour among in- and out-of-school youth in Nigeria.Mental and physical health is particularly affected among youth who experience the highest levels of sexual violence. Yet, lower exposure levels are highly prevalent and are related to health issues, too.Prosocial behaviour is negatively related to sexual violence exposure indicating effect on social well-being.

Alcohol-involved sexual assault in the US military: a scoping review.

Background: Sexual assault and alcohol use are significant public health concerns, including for the United States (US) military. Although alcohol is a risk factor for military sexual assault (MSA), research on the extent of alcohol-involvement in MSAs has not been synthesised.Objective: Accordingly, this scoping review is a preliminary step in evaluating the existing literature on alcohol-involved MSAs among US service members and veterans, with the goals of quantifying the prevalence of alcohol-involved MSA, examining differences in victim versus perpetrator alcohol consumption, and identifying additional knowledge gaps.Method: In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for Scoping Reviews, articles in this review were written in English, published in 1996 or later, reported statistics regarding alcohol-involved MSA, and included samples of US service members or veterans who experienced MSA during military service.Results: A total of 34 of 2436 articles identified met inclusion criteria. Studies often measured alcohol and drug use together. Rates of reported MSAs that involved the use of alcohol or alcohol/drugs ranged from 14% to 66.1% (M = 36.94%; Mdn = 37%) among servicemen and from 0% to 83% (M = 40.27%; Mdn = 41%) among servicewomen. Alcohol use was frequently reported in MSAs, and there is a dearth of information on critical event-level characteristics of alcohol-involved MSA. Additionally, studies used different definitions and measures of MSA and alcohol use, complicating comparisons across studies.Conclusion: The lack of event-level data, and inconsistencies in definitions, measures, and sexual assault timeframes across articles demonstrates that future research and data collection efforts require more event-level detail and consistent methodology to better understand the intersection of alcohol and MSA, which will ultimately inform MSA prevention and intervention efforts.

A total of 34 of 2436 articles identified met inclusion criteria. Studies often measured alcohol and drug use together. Rates of reported military sexual assaults that involved the use of alcohol or alcohol/drugs ranged from 14% to 66.1% (M = 36.94%; Mdn = 37%) among servicemen and from 0% to 83% (M = 40.27%; Mdn = 41%) among servicewomen.More precise prevalence estimates of the intersection between alcohol and military sexual assault were limited due to inconsistencies in the definitions of sexual assault and alcohol use, measures of sexual assault and alcohol use, and timeframe for reporting across studies.Future research should standardise the measures, definitions, and timeframes of sexual assault and alcohol-involvement to allow for a more precise estimation of alcohol-involved military sexual assault. Furthermore, event-level data is needed including amount and timeframe of alcohol consumption, relationship between victim and perpetrator, location of alcohol consumption and military sexual assault, and whether the assault was opportunistic or facilitated, to inform military sexual assault prevention and intervention efforts in the military.

Testing the effectiveness of a sexual assault resistance programme in 'real-world' implementation.

Background: In a multi-site randomized controlled trial (RCT), the EAAA programme designed for first year university women (17-24 years old) was shown to reduce the likelihood of any (attempted and completed) rape in the next year by 50% (Senn, C. Y., Eliasziw, M., Barata, P. C., Thurston, W. E., Newby-Clark, I. R., Radtke, H. L., & Hobden, K. L. (2015). Efficacy of a sexual assault resistance program for university women. New England Journal of Medicine, 372(24), 2326-2335). Through a non-profit organization, EAAA has been available to universities globally since 2016 using a Train-the-Trainer model. Observations of the 'real world' implementation suggested that universities often altered eligibility criteria (especially year of study and age) in their recruitment.Objective: The current study (2017-2021) evaluated whether EAAA was effective when implemented by universities in Canada outside of the constraints of an RCT.Method: Five universities participated. Women students who signed up to take the EAAA programme on their campuses were recruited for the research. Participants completed surveys at 1-week pre-program and 1-week and 6-months post-programme. Compared to the RCT, participant eligibility was broader, the sample was more diverse in terms of race and sexual identity and had a higher proportion of survivors. Programme fidelity was adequate.Results: Comparisons in this quasi-experimental design, between students who took the programme and students in the control group (i.e. those who signed up but did not attend the programme), confirmed the effectiveness of the EAAA programme. Reduction of any rape exceeded the a priori benchmark of 37.5%. Completed rape was significantly reduced by 57.3% at 6-months. Reduction in attempted rape of 32.9% was lower than in the RCT likely due to the somewhat older (average age 22 vs 18) sample. Positive changes to previously established mediators of the programme effects were all replicated.Conclusions: These findings suggest that the EAAA is highly effective when implemented by universities even when eligibility for students in terms of year of study and age is broadened.

This study evaluates whether the EAAA programme is effective when implemented by university staff at five Canadian universities outside of the constraints of an RCT.Women-identified students who attended the EAAA programme experienced a 57.3% reduction in completed rape and other benefits including increased confidence and reductions in rape myth beliefs when compared to a comparable group of students who signed up but didn't attend the programme.These reductions in sexual victimization in the 'real-world' implementation of the EAAA programme in a sample of diverse undergraduate and graduate students enhances our confidence in its ability to reduce the pervasive public health issue of sexual violence experienced by women in university.

Sexual violence in post-conflict Liberia: survivors and their care.

Using routine data from three clinics offering care to survivors of sexual violence (SV) in Monrovia, Liberia, we describe the characteristics of SV survivors and the pattern of SV and discuss how the current approach could be better adapted to meet survivors' needs. There were 1500 survivors seeking SV care between January 2008 and December 2009. Most survivors were women (98%) and median age was 13 years (Interquartile range: 9-17 years). Sexual aggression occurred during day-to-day activities in 822 (55%) cases and in the survivor's home in 552 (37%) cases. The perpetrator was a known civilian in 1037 (69%) SV events. Only 619 (41%) survivors sought care within 72 h. The current approach could be improved by: effectively addressing the psychosocial needs of child survivors, reaching male survivors, targeting the perpetrators in awareness and advocacy campaigns and reducing delays in seeking care.

Caracterização epidemiológica de violência sexual no sudeste da região norte do brasil / Epidemiological characterization of sexual violence in southeast of northern Brazil / Caracterización epidemiológica de la violencia sexual en el sureste del norte de Brasil

Introdução: A violência sexual é qualquer ato físico, coercivo, de intimidação com potencial psicológico contra outra pessoa, ocorrendo, especialmente,no sexo feminino, em qualquer faixa etária.Objetivo: Apresentar uma caracterização epidemiológica dos casos de violência sexual referente ao número de casos, faixa etária e gênero entre período de 2014 a 2019 no município de Tucuruí-Pará.Métodos:Trata-se de um estudo de caráter descritivo, comparativo e retrospectivo de corte transversal. A coleta dos dados foi realizada através de notificações em protocolos dos órgãos do governo estadual e do governo municipal, na cidade de Tucuruí-Pará.Para análise dos dados, foram utilizados o teste Exato de Fisher e teste de Mann Whitney.Resultados:A instituição com maior número de notificações foi pelo instrumento Estadual, com 771 casos notificados durante o período de 2014 a 2019, (∆%=631%; p<0,001) em relação ao instrumento municipal, que apresentou o total de 140 casos notificados. Quanto a diferença de gênero, as mulheres são as mais atingidas por este tipo de violência em ambos os órgãos analisados, assim como, com respeito a faixa etária mais acometida, a infância, adolescência e adultos jovens são os que mais sofrem com o problema da violência sexual, de acordo com os dados de ambos os órgãos.Conclusão: O perfil da violência sexual no município de Tucuruí é predominante entre mulheres, da faixa etária que vai desde a infância até a fase adulta. Os dados utilizados das duas instituições durante o período de estudo apresentaram diferenças estatísticas, sendo o instrumento de notificações Estadual o órgão com maior número de notificações em todas as comparações realizadas (AU).

Introduction: Sexual violence is any physical, coercive act of intimidation with psychological potential against another person, occurring especially among females, in any age group.Objective: Present an epidemiological characterization of cases of sexual violence regarding the number of cases, age group and gender between 2014 and 2019 in the municipality of Tucuruí-Pará.Methods: This is a descriptive, comparative and retrospective cross-sectional study. Data collection was carried out through notifications in protocols of state and municipal government agencies, in the city of Tucuruí-Pará.For data analysis, Fisher's exact test and Mann Whitney test were used.Results: The institution with the highest number of notifications was by the State instrument, with 771 cases notified during the period 2014 to 2019, (∆%=631%; p<0.001) compared to the municipal instrument, which presented a total of 140 cases notified. As for the gender difference, women are the most affected by this type of violence in both bodies analyzed, as well as, with respect to the most affected age group, childhood, adolescence and young adults are the ones who suffer most from the problem of sexual violence, according to data from both bodies. Conclusion: The profile of sexual violence in the city of Tucuruíis predominant among women, in the age group that goes from childhood to adulthood. The data used from the two institutions during the study period showed statistical differences, with the State notification instrument being the body with the highest number of notifications in all comparisons performed (AU).

Introducción: La violencia sexual es cualquier acto físico y coercitivo de intimidación con potencial psicológico contra otra persona,que ocurre especialmente entre mujeres, en cualquier grupo de edad.Objetivo:Presentar una caracterización epidemiológica de los casos de violencia sexual en cuanto al número de casos, grupo etario y género entre 2014 y 2019 en el municipio de Tucuruí-Pará. Métodos:Se trata de un estudio transversal descriptivo, comparativo y retrospectivo. La recolección de datos se realizó a través de notificaciones en protocolos de organismos gubernamentales estatales y municipales, en la ciudad de Tucuruí-Pará. Parael análisis de los datos se utilizó la prueba exacta de Fisher y la prueba de Mann Whitney. Resultados:La institución con mayor número de notificaciones fue por el instrumento Estatal, con 771 casos notificados durante el período 2014 a 2019, (∆%=631%; p<0,001) frente al instrumento municipal, que presentó un total de 140 casos notificados. En cuanto a la diferencia de género, las mujeres son las más afectadas por este tipo de violencia en ambos cuerpos analizados, así como, respecto al grupo de edad más afectado, la infancia, la adolescencia y los adultos jóvenes son quienes más sufren el problema de la violencia sexual, según datos de ambos organismos. Conclusión:El perfil de violencia sexual en la ciudad de Tucuruí es predominante entre las mujeres, enel grupo etario que va desde la niñez hasta la edad adulta. Los datos utilizados de las dos instituciones durante el período de estudio mostraron diferencias estadísticas, siendo el instrumento de notificación del Estado el organismo con mayor número de notificaciones en todas las comparaciones realizadas (AU).

Violencia sexual contra la mujer: reporte de caso / Sexual violence against women. Case report

Introducción: La violencia sexual contra la mujer es un problema de grandes magnitudes, que no ha sido adecuadamente dimensionado, debido a la tendencia a no denunciar de las víctimas. Justificación: En Honduras el 24% de las mujeres reporto haber sufrido algún tipo de violencia sexual, en algún momento de su vida, por lo que la investigación en este campo es relevante. Resumen del caso: Femenina adulta que fue atacada sexualmente por un hombre desconocido que la intercepto en la vía pública; la denuncia y la investigación integrada culmino con la captura y condena del imputado. Conclusión: Este caso ilustra la importancia del trabajo integrado entre los entes de investigación, forenses y fiscalía para la gestión adecuada de la información que culmino en la detención y condena del sospechoso y justicia para la víctima...(AU)

Violência sexual infantojuvenil no Brasil: um panorama de seus determinantes e da maneira como se relacionam / Child and adolescent sexual violence in Brazil: an overview of its determinants and the way they are related

Objetivo: cconstruir um panorama diagnóstico da violência sexual infantojuvenil assistida no sistema de saúde no Brasil. Métodos: estudo transversal, analítico, realizado com dados do Ministério da Saúde a respeito da violência sexual infantojuvenil no Brasil, no período de 2010 a 2021. Foram conduzidas análises de estatística descritiva e multivariadas, por meio das técnicas de Análise de Correspondências Múltiplas e de Clusterização Hierárquica. Resultados: observou-se grande importância associada à presença de vítimas do sexo feminino, solteiras, adolescentes, que têm práticas sexuais apenas com homens, em ambiente residencial, na ausência de ex-cônjuge, patrão, madrasta ou cuidador no momento da ocorrência. Notou-se também, importância associada aos casos de recorrências, à coocorrência de violência física e psicológica, bem como relacionada à participação de pais, namorados e conhecidos como violentadores. Além disso, identificou-se que as ocorrências em via pública parecem estar mais associadas a vítimas de baixa escolaridade. Conclusão: a violência sexual infantojuvenil no Brasil se estabelece, portanto, como um importante problema social, cultural, de segurança e saúde pública. Foi possível explorar os principais parâmetros associados às ocorrências no país, permitindo, assim, a possibilidade de sua aplicação em ferramentas e serviços de assistência.

Objective: build a diagnostic overview of child and adolescent sexual violence assisted in the health system in Brazil. Methods: a cross-sectional, analytical study carried out with data from the Ministry of Health regarding child and adolescent sexual violence in Brazil from 2010 to 2021. Descriptive and multivariate statistical analyses were conducted using Multiple Correspondence Analysis and Hierarchical Clustering. Results: there was great importance associated with the presence of female victims, singles, and teenagers who have sexual practices only with men in a residential environment, in the absence of a former spouse, boss, stepmother, or caregiver at the time of the occurrence. It was also noted the importance associated with cases of recurrence, the co-occurrence of physical and psychological violence, as well as related to the participation of parents, boyfriends, and acquaintances as perpetrators. Furthermore, it was identified that incidents on public roads seem to be more associated with victims with low education. Conclusion: child and adolescent sexual violence in Brazil is, therefore, established as an important social, cultural, safety, and public health problem. It was possible to explore the main parameters associated with occurrences in the country, thus allowing the possibility of its application in assistance tools and services.

Repercussões psicológicas de adultos que sofreram abuso sexual na infância / Psychological repercussions of adults who suffered sexual abuse in childhood

Objetivo: correlacionar o abuso sexual na infância com as repercussões psicológicas na idade adulta, das vítimas e destacar a importância de abordar o despreparo do sistema judiciário, a culpabilização das vítimas e as falhas no acesso à educação e à informação sobre sexualidade. Métodos: uma revisão de literatura foi conduzida utilizando métodos descritivos e analíticos, com a utilização de dados publicados nos últimos 10 anos, nas bases de dados PubMed e Scielo Brasil. Resultados: foram selecionados 13 artigos do PubMed e 10 artigos do Scielo Brasil para análise. Observa-se que o abuso sexual na infância tem repercussões que vão além do nível psicológico e cognitivo, afetando outras áreas, como mudanças na estrutura cerebral, problemas de saúde física, desenvolvimento de comportamentos de risco e dificuldades em estabelecer relações sociais, além de redução na expectativa de vida. Conclusões: são muitos os impactos negativos na vida de vítimas de abuso sexual infantil. O cuidado físico e psicológico voltado às vítimas de abuso infantil vai além da infância, demandando atenção nos anos subsequentes e durante a vida adulta, uma vez que o trauma repercute de formas diferentes, gerando repercussões negativas na qualidade de vida dos abusados. Verifica-se a necessidade de implementação de estratégias de ensino e capacitação para profissionais da área da educação, a fim de identificar e denunciar casos de violência sexual, bem como a imprescindibilidade em criar espaços para abordagem desse tema nas escolas.

Objectives: to correlate sexual abuse in childhood with the psychological repercussions of the victims in adulthood and highlight the importance of addressing the lack of preparation of the judicial system, the blaming of victims, and failures in access to education and information about sexuality. Methods: a literature review was conducted using descriptive and analytical methods using data published in the last ten (10) years in the PubMed and Scielo Brasil databases. Results: 13 articles from PubMed and ten (10) articles from Scielo Brasil were selected for analysis. It is observed that sexual abuse in childhood has repercussions that go beyond the psychological and cognitive level, affecting other areas, such as changes in brain structure, physical health problems, development of risk behaviors, and difficulties in establishing relationships and social benefits, in addition to a reduction in life expectancy. Conclusions: there are many negative impacts on the lives of victims of child sexual abuse. Physical and psychological care aimed at victims of child abuse goes beyond childhood, demanding attention in subsequent years and during adult life since the trauma has repercussions in different ways, generating negative epercussions on the quality of life of those abused. There is a need to implement teaching and training strategies for professionals in the field of education to identify and report cases of sexual violence, as well as the essential need to create spaces to address this issue in schools.

Lifetime sexual violence among transgender women and travestis (TGW) in Brazil: Prevalence and associated factors / Violência sexual durante a vida em mulheres trans e travestis (MTT) no Brasil: Prevalência e fatores associados

ABSTRACT Objective To describe the prevalence, characteristics, and factors associated with sexual violence in transgender women and travestis (TGW) in Brazil. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in five Brazilian cities (Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre, Salvador, and São Paulo) between 2019 and 2021. Participants were recruited using the respondent-driven sampling (RDS) technique. The outcome of interest is the self-reported experience of sexual violence throughout the respondents' lifetime. We evaluated the actions taken by victims of sexual violence and how they dealt with the experience. Logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the associations between sociodemographic and behavioral factors (such as race, income, drug use, sex work, and access to healthcare) and the outcome. Results A total of 1,317 TGW were interviewed. Among them, 53% (n=698) reported experiencing sexual violence. For 64.4% (n=419) of the respondents, sexual violence occurred on more than one occasion. The majority of TGW did not seek health services (93.2%, n=648), disclose the violence (93.9%, n=653), nor seek support from family or friends (86.5%, n=601). A higher prevalence of sexual violence was associated with homelessness (adjusted prevalence ratio — aPR=1.69, 95% confidence interval — 95%CI 1.01-2.84), a history of engaging in sex work (aPR=2.04, 95%CI 1.46-2.85), self-reporting regular, bad, or very bad emotional health (aPR=1.67, 95%CI 1.28-2.19), and experiencing difficulties accessing health services in the previous year (aPR=2.78, 95%CI 1.74-4.43). Conclusion The high prevalence of sexual violence, analyzed together with the actions of the victims, indicates a context of high vulnerability and low institutional support. In this scenario, violence can be exacerbated, resulting in severe health consequences.

RESUMO Objetivo Descrever a prevalência, características e fatores associados à violência sexual em mulheres trans e travestis (MTT) no Brasil. Métodos Estudo transversal conduzido em cinco cidades brasileiras (Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre, Salvador e São Paulo) entre 2019 e 2021. As participantes foram recrutadas usando a técnica respondent-driven sampling (RDS). O desfecho é a experiência de violência sexual ao longo da vida. As ações tomadas pelas vítimas e como elas lidaram com a experiência foram avaliadas. Análise de regressão logística foi empregada para examinar as associações entre fatores sociodemográficos e comportamentais (como raça, renda, trabalho sexual e acesso aos serviços de saúde) e o desfecho. Resultados Um total de 1.317 MTT foram entrevistadas. Entre elas, 53% (n=698) relataram violência sexual. Para 64,4% (n=419) destas, a violência sexual ocorreu em mais de uma ocasião. A maioria das MTT não procurou serviços de saúde (93,2%, n=648), não denunciou (93,9%, n=653) nem buscou apoio de familiares ou amigos (86,5%, n=601). A maior prevalência de violência sexual foi associada à falta de moradia (razão de prevalência ajustada — RPa=1,69, IC 95% 1,01-2,84), histórico de envolvimento em trabalho sexual (RPa=2,04, IC 95% 1,46-2,85), relato de saúde emocional regular, ruim ou muito ruim (RPa=1,67, IC 95% 1,28-2,19) e experiência de dificuldades de acesso aos serviços de saúde (RPa=2,78, IC 95% 1,74-4,43). Conclusão A alta prevalência de violência sexual, analisada em conjunto com as ações das vítimas, indica um contexto de alta vulnerabilidade e baixo suporte institucional. Nesse cenário, a violência pode ser exacerbada, resultando em graves consequências para a saúde.