Preadolescent Peer Sexual Abuse: A Systematic Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Criminology
• Public Health

Background:

• Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a significant global issue.
• Existing research predominantly focuses on adult offenders, leaving a knowledge gap regarding child perpetrators.
• Preadolescent peer sexual abuse (PAPSA) is under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the existing literature on preadolescent peer sexual abuse (PAPSA).
• To identify the extent of empirical data available on PAPSA.
• To highlight research gaps concerning victims, abuse dynamics, and disclosure in PAPSA.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
• Focused on studies concerning sexual abuse among peers involving children aged 12 and under.
• Analyzed definitions, methodologies, and findings of included studies.

Main Results:

• Only nine empirical studies specifically addressed PAPSA.
• Most studies defined the phenomenon as sexual harassment rather than severe abuse.
• Conflicting results were found regarding age and gender dynamics; prevention programs were not targeted at preadolescents.
• Significant gaps exist in understanding victim characteristics, abuse dynamics, and disclosure processes.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical lack of empirical data on preadolescent peer sexual abuse (PAPSA).
• Current research often uses inadequate definitions and fails to address key aspects of PAPSA.
• Further in-depth research is urgently needed to conceptualize and empirically examine PAPSA and its unique characteristics.