Individual and Family Factors Underlying Sexual Abuse in Children and Adolescents Experience

Due to the sensitivity of childhood and adolescence, it is necessary to study the underlying factors to prevent psychological and social harm, such as the sexual abuse of children and adolescents.

This study aimed to investigate the lived experience of children and adolescents about individual and family factors that underlie sexual abuse.

The approach of the present study was qualitative. Its strategy was phenomenological. A targeted sampling of critical cases, 15 children and adolescent victims have chosen who experienced sexual harassment and abuse and were referred to the Legal Medicine Center in Tehran, was completed based on theoretical saturation. The data collection process was during 2019. The data collection tool was a semi-structured interview. It was audio-recorded, and the content was converted into text. Then, the data were as concepts and categories. The research team, including the researcher, supervisors, and consultants, confirmed the validity of the interview tool. Also, the Participants confirmed the correctness of the coding process.

Research Findings showed that the main factors in the occurrence of abuse were (1) individual factors (misplaced trust, relationship with strangers, simplicity, stress, loneliness, inappropriate coverage, disregard for parental advice, and emotional dependence); And (2) family factors (poor relationship with parents, parental separation, parental strictness, busy motherhood, inconsideration by parents, poor parental supervision, running away from home, and fear of parents).

individual and family categories and comparing the results with the research background, identifying to prevent the underlying cause of sexual abuse.