Sexual Risk Behavior of Children and Adolescents With a History of Sexual Violence A Meta-Analytic Review

Theoretical Background: Experiencing sexual violence (SV) at a young age can impede sexual development and lead to sexual risk behavior. Objective: This meta-analysis aims to provide a systematic overview regarding the development of sexual risk behavior in sexually violated children and adolescents. Method: A systematic literature search was carried out (PubMed, ERIC, Cochrane, and PubPsych). Meta-analyses were conducted, investigating the link between child SV and sexual behaviors (teenage pregnancy, safer sex, substance use during intercourse, transactional sex, and number of sex partners). Results: A total of 19 studies were identified. Survivors of SV are more likely to have higher numbers of sex partners, be involved in teenage pregnancy, and participate in transactional sex. Discussion: Early identification of sexually violated youth is important in order to intervene at an early stage and reduce the effects of sexual violence preventively. PROSPERO registration number CRD42020145139.