Abstract
Behavioral sequellae of child abuse are frequently noted, however, there are few studies of nonclinical children examining the strength of such associations. As part of a health needs assessment, we surveyed 712 junior high students (7th-9th grade, mean age 13.5 years) for self-reports of abusive experiences and health behaviors. The sample was 50% male, 77% white and represented all socioeconomic levels. 18.3% students reported physical (PA) and/or sexual abuse (SA); 14.7% reported PA, 8.1% reported SA and 4.1% reported both. Reports did not differ by age or race, but more females (12.6%) than males (3.9%) reported SA (p=0.0, X2). Both PA and SA were associated with running away, considering hurting oneself, suicide attempts, and the use of drugs, pot, alcohol, cigarettes, and laxatives (all p<.01). Strength of associations (odds ratios) range from 1.8 for the risk of alcohol use to 4.7 for the risk of running away. No clinically significant relationships were found between SA/PA and anger, sadness or self-esteem. This data confirms some previous reports and indicates the need for studies of nonclinical populations.
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Hibbard, R., Brack, C. & Orr, D. ABUSE AND HEALTH BEHAVIORS IN A STUDENT POPULATION. Pediatr Res 21 (Suppl 4), 175 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198704010-00053
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198704010-00053