1
|
Emery CR, Wong PWC, Haden-Pawlowski V, Pui C, Wong G, Kwok S, Liu AY, Abdullah A. Neglect, online invasive exploitation, and childhood sexual abuse in Hong Kong: Breaking the links. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 147:106591. [PMID: 38128374 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a form of maltreatment that involves a child in sexual activity that she or he cannot fully comprehend or is unable to give informed consent to. The empirical link between child neglect and contact child sexual abuse is well established but little research examines mediators that explain this link. OBJECTIVE This study tests online risk behaviors and unwanted sexual experiences online as sequential mediators of the neglect - CSA relationship. PARTICIPANT AND SETTING The study uses a representative cross-sectional sample of 1097 Hong Kong adolescents. METHODS Preacher and Hayes' (2008) non-parametric bootstrap approach was used to test three mediation hypotheses. RESULTS Baseline logistic regression models showed neglected children had 11.2 times higher odds of reporting contact CSA (p < .001). Similarly, neglect was associated with 3.5 times higher odds of more online risk behavior (p < .001), which in turn was associated with 2.7 times higher odds of more online invasive exploitation (p < .001). Online invasive exploitation was associated with 2.7 times higher odds of reporting offline contact CSA (p < .001). The study found online risk behaviors to be a significant mediator of the relationship between neglect and online invasive exploitation (unwanted online sexual experiences). Online invasive exploitation, in turn, mediated the relationship between online risk behaviors and offline contact CSA. CONCLUSION The findings highlight the importance of intervening against neglect as it appears to play a vital role in the etiology of contact CSA in Hong Kong.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clifton R Emery
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Paul W C Wong
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | | | - Cayla Pui
- Save the Children Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | | | - Steve Kwok
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Amy Yinan Liu
- Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work, University of Wisconsin-Madison, United States
| | - Alhassan Abdullah
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chan HC(O. Youth sexual offending in Hong Kong: examining the role of self-control, risky sexual behaviors, and paraphilic interests. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1143271. [PMID: 37377476 PMCID: PMC10292797 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1143271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Little is known about the nature and prevalence of sexual offending among youth in Hong Kong. Methods Testing self-control theory and sexual health risk factors (i.e., risky sexual behaviors [general and two subtypes] and paraphilic interests [general and 14 subtypes]), the prevalence of self-reported sexual offending behaviors (i.e., threat of sexual assault, penetrative sexual assault, and nonpenetrative sexual offense) was examined in a community-based sample of 863 young people (aged 17 to 20) in Hong Kong. Results In this study, men reported significantly higher levels of threat of sexual assault and of general and 12 subtypes of paraphilic interests than women; and women reported a significantly higher level of a specific paraphilic interest subtype (i.e., transvestic fetishism) than men. Logistic regressions found that, in general, a low level of self-control and high levels of risky sexual behaviors and paraphilic interests were important factors in the participants' likelihood of issuing threats of sexual assault and engaging in penetrative and nonpenetrative sexual assault. Discussion Important practical implications for reducing the tendency of young people to engage in sexual offending behavior can be derived from this study.
Collapse
|
3
|
Chan HC(O, Myers WC. Risky Sexual Behavior, Paraphilic Interest, and Sexual Offending: The Study of a Community Sample of Young Adults in Hong Kong. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4279. [PMID: 36901292 PMCID: PMC10002374 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Limited information is available on the prevalence and nature of sexual offending in Hong Kong. This cross-sectional study seeks to explore the role of risky sexual behavior (RSB) and paraphilic interests in self-reported sexual offending behavior (i.e., nonpenetrative-only, penetrative-only, and nonpenetrative-plus-penetrative sexual assault) in a community sample of young adults in Hong Kong. Using a large sample (N = 1885) of university students, the lifetime prevalence of self-reported sexual offending was 18% (n = 342; 23% males (n = 166), 15% females (n = 176)). Based on the study subsample of 342 participants who self-reported sexual offending (aged 18-35), the findings indicated that males reported significantly higher levels of general, penetrative-only, nonpenetrative-plus-penetrative sexual assault; and paraphilic interest in voyeurism, frotteurism, biastophilia, scatophilia, and hebephilia than females; while females reported a significantly higher level of transvestic fetishism than males. No significant difference was found in RSB between males and females. Logistic regressions found that the participants who possessed a higher level of RSB, particularly penetrative behaviors, and paraphilic interest in voyeurism and zoophilia were less likely to engage in a nonpenetrative-only sexual offense. Conversely, the participants who possessed higher levels of RSB, especially penetrative behaviors, and paraphilic interest in exhibitionism and zoophilia, were more likely to engage in nonpenetrative-plus-penetrative sexual assault. The implications for practice in areas such as public education and offender rehabilitation are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Choon (Oliver) Chan
- Department of Social Policy, Sociology, and Criminology, School of Social Policy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Wade C. Myers
- Division of Forensic Psychiatry, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chan KL, Chen M, Lo CKM, Chen XY, Tang D, Ip P. Who Is at High Risk for Child Abuse and Neglect: Risk Assessment among Battered Women Using Shelter Services. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:833. [PMID: 36613155 PMCID: PMC9819812 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intersections between intimate partner violence (IPV) and child abuse and neglect (CAN) have received growing attention from the research community. However, there is limited research examining the risk factors for CAN among children of battered women who have experienced severe IPV and seek refuge in shelters. OBJECTIVE In the current study, we examined the co-occurrence of IPV and CAN and the risk factors for CAN in a sample of battered women. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING We recruited 260 battered women who were staying in women's shelters in Hong Kong. METHODS We analyzed the data collected from the risk assessment reports of battered women and focused on IPV against women, CAN, and risk assessment. RESULTS Nearly half of the battered women had reported both IPV against themselves and CAN against their children. These women were, in general, younger, unemployed, and had been living in Hong Kong for less than seven years as new immigrants. Other risk factors for CAN in violent families included women's conflicts with their partner and abusers with higher levels of stress and approval of violence. CONCLUSIONS This exploratory study of risk factors for the co-occurrence of IPV and CAN advances our understanding of the causes of violence against women and children in families with violence. Our findings suggest that additional integrated services should be offered to both battered women and their children during their stay in shelters and after shelter departure. Addressing IPV and CAN and reducing adverse consequences needs greater collaboration among the various stakeholders across the social services, health, educational, and legal sectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ko Ling Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mengtong Chen
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Camilla K. M. Lo
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiao Yan Chen
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
| | - Debbie Tang
- Family Crisis Support, Po Leung Kuk, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Patrick Ip
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shi X, Zheng Y. Sexual Victimization in Adulthood and Associated Factors Among Men and Women: Cross-Sectional Evidence from Mainland China. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:1001-1017. [PMID: 35041094 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02257-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Limited empirical research addresses sexual victimization and related factors among the general adult population in China. To address this gap, we explored the association between sexual victimization in adulthood and associated factors (unwanted sexual experiences [USE] before age 18, binge drinking prior to sex, hooking up, violent pornography use, awareness and perceived behavioral control of consent, and sexual refusal assertiveness) among a convenience Chinese sample. A cross-sectional study was performed in September 2020 among 898 screened men and women from 29 provinces in mainland China. Overall, 52.5% of men and 57.9% of women experienced sexual victimization at least once in adulthood. Men and women differed in the severity of sexual victimization in adulthood, with the mean severity scores of women being significantly higher than those of men. Hierarchical ordinal logistic regression revealed that, after considering control variables, correlates of severity of sexual victimization in adulthood included gender (OR 3.17, 95% CI 2.30-4.40), severity of USE before age 18 (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.92-2.73), binge drinking prior to sex (OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.83-3.49), hook-up history (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.49-3.39), violent pornography use (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04-1.09), lack of perceived behavioral control of communicating consent (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.07), and sexual refusal assertiveness (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.89-0.95). These findings indicate that early adverse sexual experiences, potential risky sexual behaviors, violent pornography use, and beliefs about consent and refusal may play an important role in predicting sexual victimization among Chinese adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Shi
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Ministry of Education), Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ng AHN, Boey KW, Kwan CW, Ho RYF, Ho DYL. Sexual Self-Concept and Psychological Functioning of Women With a History of Childhood Sexual Abuse in Hong Kong. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2022; 34:177-196. [PMID: 38596530 PMCID: PMC10903682 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.2022819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Sexual self-concept (SSC) is an important component of health that is closely associated with the well-being of survivors of child sexual abuse (CSA). Compared with non-CSA respondents, SSC of CSA survivors was deleteriously affected, resulting in ineffective psychological functioning (negative self-evaluation, psychological ill-health, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships). Negative SSC (sexual anxiety, sexual depression, and sexual fear) played a significant role in mediating the adverse effects of CSA on psychological functioning. Future studies may recruit a sample with greater variation in CSA characteristics and use externalizing problems as outcome measures to cross-validate findings of this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hoi Nga Ng
- Research Unit on Love, Marriage and Family, School of Humanities and Languages, Caritas Institute of Higher Education, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kam Weng Boey
- Research Unit on Love, Marriage and Family, School of Humanities and Languages, Caritas Institute of Higher Education, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chi Wai Kwan
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rosanna Yim Fan Ho
- Caritas Project for Adult Survivors of Childhood Trauma, Caritas Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dorothy Yee Lin Ho
- Caritas Project for Adult Survivors of Childhood Trauma, Caritas Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Dworkin ER, Krahé B, Zinzow H. The Global Prevalence of Sexual Assault: A Systematic Review of International Research Since 2010. PSYCHOLOGY OF VIOLENCE 2021; 11:497-508. [PMID: 34737898 PMCID: PMC8562086 DOI: 10.1037/vio0000374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We present a review of peer-reviewed English-language studies conducted outside the United States and Canada on the prevalence of sexual assault victimization in adolescence and adulthood published since 2010. METHOD A systematic literature search yielded 32 articles reporting on 45 studies from 29 countries. Studies that only provided prevalence estimates for sexual assault in intimate relationships or did not present separate rates for men and women were excluded. All studies were coded by two coders, and a risk of bias score was calculated for each study. Both past-year and prevalence rates covering longer periods were extracted. RESULTS The largest number of studies came from Europe (n=21), followed by Africa (n=11), Asia and Latin America (n=6 each). One study came from the Middle East and no studies were found from Oceania. Across the 22 studies that reported past-year prevalence rates, figures ranged from 0% to 59.2% for women, 0.3% to 55.5% for men, and 1.5% to 18.2% for LGBT samples. The average risk of bias score was 5.7 out of 10. Studies varied widely in methodology. CONCLUSION Despite regional variation, most studies indicate that sexual assault is widespread. More sustained, systematic, and coordinated research efforts are needed to gauge the scale of sexual assault in different parts of the world and to develop prevention measures.
Collapse
|
8
|
Khade NB, Wang X, Decker SH. Examining the Link Between Childhood Physical Abuse and Risk for Violent Victimization in Youth and Young Adulthood in China. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP4891-NP4918. [PMID: 30145916 DOI: 10.1177/0886260518794002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the association between childhood physical abuse and an increased risk for violent victimization in youth and young adulthood in China. It further assesses if this relationship is mediated by an individual's routine activities. Data used in this study were collected from more than 2,000 individuals of school-based samples in Changzhi, a city of over 3 million people in Northern China. Drawing from a survey that captures childhood physical abuse, violent victimization, and routine activities, this study uses negative binominal regression to examine the relationships between childhood physical abuse, routine activities, and violent victimization among Chinese youth and young adults. We find that individuals who were physically abused in childhood were at a greater risk for violent victimization in youth and young adulthood, and that an individual's routine activities (e.g., drinking) partially mediated this relationship. The findings from this study suggest that routine activity theory provides a useful framework for explaining the link between childhood physical abuse and risk for violent victimization in the Chinese context. Furthermore, our findings stress the importance of future research to look more closely at childhood experiences when studying future behaviors. In addition, our findings challenge beliefs held among Chinese parents about the acceptability of physical punishment to discipline children. These findings can be used to shape programs that create awareness of acceptable parenting practices in China.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Xia Wang
- Arizona State University, Phoenix, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chui WH, Khiatani PV. Mediating the Maltreatment-Delinquency Relationship: The Role of Triad Gang Membership. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:2140-2165. [PMID: 29475421 DOI: 10.1177/0886260518760607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The primary aim of this article is to examine the role of triad affiliation in mediating the relationship between child maltreatment (neglect, punishment, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse) and delinquency among active young gang members in Hong Kong. A sample of 177 gang members aged 12 to 24 was recruited to complete a questionnaire with the assistance of a youth outreach social work team. Neglect was identified as the most common form of maltreatment, followed by emotional abuse, punishment, and sexual abuse. Mediation analyses confirmed that triad affiliation acts as a mediating variable in the child maltreatment-delinquency relationship, except in cases of sexual abuse. Only the relationship between punishment and delinquency was found to be fully mediated by triad affiliation; partial mediation effects were found for neglect and emotional abuse. Recommendations for child protection and youth workers are provided.
Collapse
|
10
|
Emery CR, Xie QW, Chan JSM, Leng LL, Chan CHY, So KF, Li A, Po KKT, Chouliara Z, Chan CLW, Choi AWM, Yuen LP, Ku KS, Kung W, Ng SM. The Counterintuitive Relationship between Telomerase Activity and Childhood Emotional Abuse: Culture and Complexity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041619. [PMID: 33567728 PMCID: PMC7914855 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: A burgeoning literature has found relationships between telomere length, telomerase activity, and human health and longevity. Although some research links a history of childhood adversity with shortened telomere length, our review found no prior research on the relationship between child maltreatment history and telomerase activity in adulthood. We hypothesized a negative relationship between child maltreatment and telomerase activity and hypothesized that the association would be moderated by sex. METHODS: These relationships were tested on a sample of 262 Hong Kong Chinese adults (200 females versus 62 males) with mild to moderate depression. RESULTS: Counterintuitively, emotional abuse was positively associated with telomerase activity, while other maltreatment types were non-significant. The positive relationship between emotional abuse and telomerase activity was significantly moderated by the sex of the participant. CONCLUSIONS: We advance two possible explanations for this finding (1) a culturally informed resilience explanation and (2) a homeostatic complexity explanation. The two explanations are not mutually exclusive. This trial is registered under Hong Kong Clinical Trial Register number HKCTR-1929. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Emotional abuse was significantly positively associated with telomerase activity. There are at least two non-mutually exclusive explanations for the findings. Simply put, either (1) in the cultural context of Hong Kong emotional abuse was not a risk factor, and/or (2) the conceptualization of telomerase activity as a straightforward indicator of longevity is overly simplistic. The first story we might term a “resilience explanation” while the second we might call a “homeostatic complexity” story.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clifton R. Emery
- SWSA, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong; (L.-L.L.); (C.H.Y.C.); (C.L.W.C.)
- Correspondence: (C.R.E.); (S.-M.N.)
| | - Qian-Wen Xie
- School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China;
| | - Jessie S. M. Chan
- Department of Psychology, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong;
| | - Ling-Li Leng
- SWSA, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong; (L.-L.L.); (C.H.Y.C.); (C.L.W.C.)
| | - Celia H. Y. Chan
- SWSA, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong; (L.-L.L.); (C.H.Y.C.); (C.L.W.C.)
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong; (K.-F.S.); (K.K.T.P.)
- Joint International Research Laboratory of CNS Regeneration Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
| | - Ang Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of CNS Regeneration Ministry of Education, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China;
| | - Kevin K. T. Po
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong; (K.-F.S.); (K.K.T.P.)
| | - Zoe Chouliara
- Independent Practice, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH7, UK;
| | - Cecilia Lai Wan Chan
- SWSA, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong; (L.-L.L.); (C.H.Y.C.); (C.L.W.C.)
| | - Anna W. M. Choi
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
| | - L. P. Yuen
- International Association for Health and Yangsheng, 20 Venturi Rd., Happy Valley, Hong Kong;
| | - Kam Shing Ku
- Haven of Hope Haven of Hope Christian Service, 7 Haven of Hope Rd, Hong Kong;
| | - Winnie Kung
- Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University, New York, NY 10023, USA;
| | - Siu-Man Ng
- SWSA, University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong; (L.-L.L.); (C.H.Y.C.); (C.L.W.C.)
- Correspondence: (C.R.E.); (S.-M.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fung HW, Chung HM, Ross CA. Demographic and mental health correlates of childhood emotional abuse and neglect in a Hong Kong sample. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2020; 99:104288. [PMID: 31821980 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2019.104288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse childhood experiences are an important public health issue. It is well documented that they are associated with many health problems. Nevertheless, little is known about childhood emotional abuse and neglect (CEA and CEN) among Hong Kong people. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the demographic and mental health correlates of CEA and CEN in a Hong Kong sample. METHODS A total of N = 418 Hong Kong adults completed an online survey that included questions regarding demographic information and measures of adverse childhood experiences, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and somatoform dissociation. RESULTS The rates of CEA and CEN were 43.3 % and 44.5 % respectively in this convenience sample. Both CEA and CEN were associated with poor socioeconomic status. They were also associated with psychiatric service usage and all five types of mental health problems. Both CEA and CEN increased the chance of having mental health problems even after taking into account the effects of other forms of childhood abuse and neglect. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to show that CEA and CEN are significantly associated with poor socioeconomic status and mental health problems in the Hong Kong context. Implications are discussed. Further studies are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang Fung
- The Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong.
| | - Hei Man Chung
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Colin A Ross
- The Colin A. Ross Institute for Psychological Trauma, Richardson, Texas, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
The objective of the current study was to explore the estimated prevalence of childhood sexual abuse in China. We conducted a meta-analysis that used the data from 36 articles. A total of 125 independent samples and 131,734 participants were included. The results revealed no significant difference in the prevalence of childhood sexual abuse between Chinese men (9.1%) and women (8.9%). The prevalence of childhood sexual abuse in studies from mainland areas was significantly higher than that from Hong Kong/Taiwan. The estimated prevalence of childhood sexual abuse in China also differed according to the definition of child sexual abuse, data collection method, year of data collection, and the mean age of participants at the time of assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Ma
- a Department of Psychology , Leshan Normal University , Leshan , China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ihongbe TO, Masho SW. Child Sexual Abuse and Intimate Partner Violence Victimization in Adulthood: Sex-Differences in the Mediating Influence of Age of Sexual Initiation. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2018; 27:53-69. [PMID: 28972456 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2017.1361496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Child sexual abuse is a major public health concern in the United States with devastating sequelae. Although the relationship between child sexual abuse and intimate partner violence victimization in adulthood is known, little is known about the mediating influence of the age of sexual initiation on the association, or whether sex differences exist. Using data from waves I, III, and IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (N = 1,163), we aimed to examine the mediating influence of age of sexual initiation on the association between child sexual abuse and intimate partner violence victimization in adulthood and identify sex differences. Findings reveal that in female survivors, age of sexual initiation partially mediated the association between child sexual abuse and physical intimate partner violence victimization in adulthood. In male survivors, no mediational effect was observed. Public health practitioners should be aware of sex differences in the effect of early sexual initiation on intimate partner violence victimization in adulthood among child sexual abuse survivors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy O Ihongbe
- a Division of Epidemiology, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, School of Medicine , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA
| | - Saba W Masho
- a Division of Epidemiology, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, School of Medicine , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA
- c Institute for Women's Health , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
DiLillo D, Jaffe AE, Watkins LE, Peugh J, Kras A, Campbell C. The Occurrence and Traumatic Impact of Sexual Revictimization in Newlywed Couples. COUPLE & FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY 2016; 5:212-225. [PMID: 28392971 PMCID: PMC5383208 DOI: 10.1037/cfp0000067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The present study examines whether individuals with a history of child sexual abuse are at risk of sexual revictimization in marriage and, if so, whether these experiences are associated with increased trauma symptomatology. Two hundred heterosexual newlywed couples were recruited from marriage license records and completed self-report assessments of past sexual victimization and sexual coercion within the marital dyad. Actor-Partner Interdependence Models revealed that, compared to non-victims, women with a history of child sexual abuse (CSA) experienced more acts of sexual coercion by their husbands during the past year. Moreover, there was a significant interaction between CSA and sexual coercion such that, among women who experienced CSA, the relationship between marital revictimization and trauma symptoms was stronger. Findings suggest that, for women but not men, sexual revictimization may occur in the context of a new marriage, and these experiences are associated with increased trauma symptoms. These findings have implications for understanding female survivors' perceptions of risk, and are particularly concerning given the high degree of personal and legal commitment involved in marriage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - James Peugh
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sexual Problems in the Hong Kong Chinese Community. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-016-0082-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
16
|
Voith LA, Topitzes J, Reynolds AJ. Violent Victimization Among Disadvantaged Young Adults Exposed to Early Family Conflict and Abuse: A 24-Year Prospective Study of the Victimization Cycle Across Gender. VIOLENCE AND VICTIMS 2016; 31:767-85. [PMID: 27301843 PMCID: PMC5030773 DOI: 10.1891/0886-6708.vv-d-14-00090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Significant associations between childhood victimization and later revictimization have materialized in previous literature; yet, the victimization cycle has been primarily explored with indicators of sexual assault, although insight into linkages between other forms of victimization remains limited. This study examined connections from family conflict exposure and physical abuse in childhood to violent crime victimization in adulthood, assessing also gender differences and neighborhood influences. Results from logistic regression and hierarchical linear modeling with data from the Chicago Longitudinal Study, a panel of 1,539 low-income, ethnic/racial minority children, unearthed a significant relation between family conflict exposure and later revictimization. Moderated by gender, these analyses showed girls exposed to frequent family conflict are particularly vulnerable to revictimization in adulthood. Exploratory analyses unveiled a potential linkage between childhood physical abuse and later revictimization for men. Neighborhood effects marginally influenced results in one instance. Public health implications are discussed.
Collapse
|
17
|
Chan KL, Emery CR, Ip P. Children With Disability Are More at Risk of Violence Victimization: Evidence From a Study of School-Aged Chinese Children. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2016; 31:1026-46. [PMID: 25542523 DOI: 10.1177/0886260514564066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Although research tends to focus on whether children with disability are more at risk of violence victimization, conclusive evidence on the association, especially in non-Western settings, is lacking. Using a large and representative sample of school-aged children in Hong Kong (N = 5,841, aged 9-18 years), this study aims to fill the research gap by providing reliable estimates of the prevalence of disability and the direct and indirect experiences of violence among children with disability. The study also compares the prevalence of child maltreatment, parental intimate partner violence (IPV), and in-law conflict to explore the factors related to the association between disability and violence victimization. The prevalence of disability among children was about 6%. Children with disability were more likely to report victimization than those without disability: 32% to 60% of the former had experienced child maltreatment, and 12% to 46% of them had witnessed IPV between parents or in-law conflict. The results of a logistic regression showed that disability increased the risk of lifetime physical maltreatment by 1.6 times. Furthermore, low levels of parental education and paternal unemployment were risk factors for lifetime child maltreatment. The risk of child maltreatment could have an almost sixfold increase when the child had also witnessed other types of family violence. Possible explanations and implications of the findings are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ko Ling Chan
- The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
| | | | - Patrick Ip
- The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhu Y, Chan KL. Prevalence and Correlates of School Bullying Victimization in Xi'an, China. VIOLENCE AND VICTIMS 2015; 30:714-732. [PMID: 26159148 DOI: 10.1891/0886-6708.vv-d-14-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This study used the data from a representative sample to estimate the prevalence of child bullying victimization in Xi'an, China. Data on social demographic information and the experiences of different types of bullying victimization were collected from a randomly selected sample with 3,175 middle school students aged 15-17 years by self-administrated questionnaires. t Test, χ2 test, and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to test group differences and examine the correlates of bullying victimization. Results show that 54.9% and 44.6% of Chinese children have been bullied in a lifetime and in the preceding year, respectively. Correlates for direct and relational bullying victimization includes male participants, father's lower education level, father's unemployment, having one or more siblings, smoking, depression, borderline personality trait, posttraumatic stress disorder, and from rural schools. Overall, the prevalence of child bullying victimization in China is substantial. The multiple correlates suggest prevention and intervention of bullying victimization in a holistic and comprehensive way.
Collapse
|
19
|
Stockdale MS, Logan TK, Sliter KA, Berry SA. Interpersonal Violence Victimization and Sexual Harassment: A Prospective Study of Revictimization. SEX ROLES 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11199-014-0377-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
20
|
Cruz M, Cruz PB, Weirich C, McGorty R, McColgan MD. Referral patterns and service utilization in a pediatric hospital-wide intimate partner violence program. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2013; 37:511-519. [PMID: 23623444 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2013.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2012] [Revised: 03/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the referral patterns and utilization of on-site intimate partner violence (IPV) services in both inpatient and outpatient settings at a large urban children's hospital. METHODS Retrospective review of case records from IPV victims referred to an on-site IPV counselor between September 2005 and February 2010. Descriptive statistics were used to examine IPV victim demographics, number of referrals per hospital department, referral source (type of staff member), time spent by IPV counselor for initial consultation, and services provided to IPV victims. RESULTS A total of 453 unique referrals were made to the IPV counselor: 81% were identified by universal screening and 19% by risk-based screening. Thirty-six percent of IPV victims were referred from primary care clinics; 26% from inpatient units; 13% from outpatient subspecialty clinics; 12.5% from the emergency department; 5% from the Child Protection Program; and 4% were employee self-referrals. Social workers generated the most referrals (55%), followed by attending physicians (17%), residents (13%), nurses (7%), and other individuals (self-referrals) (4%). The median initial IPV intervention required 42 minutes. Supportive counseling and safety planning were the services most often utilized by IPV victims. CONCLUSIONS IPV screening can be successfully integrated in both inpatient and outpatient settings by a multidisciplinary group of hospital staff. Most referrals were generated by universal screening outside of the primary care setting. IPV victims generally desired supportive counseling and safety planning over immediate housing relocation. Many IPV screening opportunities were missed by using verbal screening alone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cruz
- Section of General Pediatrics, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA 19134, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Chui WH, Chan HCO. Psychological characteristics of male 14- to 20-year-olds on probation and in a residential home in Hong Kong. CRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR AND MENTAL HEALTH : CBMH 2013; 23:41-55. [PMID: 23386575 DOI: 10.1002/cbm.1851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 10/19/2012] [Accepted: 11/20/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little research has been conducted with Hong Kong juvenile probationers. AIMS The goals of this study are to examine the psychological characteristics of 14- to 20-year-old male probationers and to test their relationship with broad types of offending--violent and nonviolent. METHODS Participants were drawn from the only transitional housing facility for juvenile probationers aged 14-20 years. Offence types and numbers were rated from self-report. Various schedules were rated at interview with consenting young men to describe them in terms of eight psychological characteristics: self-esteem, life satisfaction, social bonding, positive affect, negative affect, impulsivity, pro-criminal attitude and self-perceived life problems. RESULTS A total of 113 young men completed the assessment, 90% of those eligible. The average psychological profile of these young men was fairly typical for their communities. Pro-criminal attitudes, however, correlated with both main types of offending, whereas main affective state was differently associated. Predominantly, negative affect was associated with violent offending and predominantly positive affect with nonviolent offending. CONCLUSIONS Participants in this study generally reported higher levels of positive psychological well-being than in previous nondelinquent Chinese samples. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE AND FUTURE RESEARCH: A case-control study comparing such offenders with nondelinquents is required to clarify these findings. A longitudinal design is now indicated to test the direction of relationships between psychological indicators and offending. These steps would be useful precursors to a service evaluation of probation hostels for young offenders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wing Hong Chui
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chiu GR, Lutfey KE, Litman HJ, Link CL, Hall SA, McKinlay JB. Prevalence and overlap of childhood and adult physical, sexual, and emotional abuse: a descriptive analysis of results from the Boston Area Community Health (BACH) survey. VIOLENCE AND VICTIMS 2013; 28:381-402. [PMID: 23862305 PMCID: PMC3718504 DOI: 10.1891/0886-6708.11-043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Abuse is associated with a wide variety of health problems, yet comprehensive population-based data are scant. Existing literature focuses on a single type of abuse, population, or lifestage. Using a racially/ethnically diverse community-based sample, we document the prevalence of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse by lifestage and gender, assess variation in abuse by sociodemographics; establish overlap of abuses; and examine childhood abuse relationships with abuse in adulthood. Prevalence of abuse ranges from 15% to 27%; women report more adulthood emotional abuse and lifetime sexual abuse than men; reports of abuse can vary by race/ethnicity and poverty status, particularly in women; there is overlap between types of abuse; and a history of childhood abuse is associated with a greater risk of abuse as an adult.
Collapse
|
23
|
Chan HCO, Chui WH. Psychological correlates of violent and non-violent Hong Kong juvenile probationers. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2012; 30:103-120. [PMID: 22362616 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
There is little known about Hong Kong juvenile offenders on probation. The purpose of this study was to compare Hong Kong juvenile violent with non-violent probationers on static demographic and psychological variables. The study comprised 109 male juvenile probationers aged 14-20 years (M = 16.97, SD = 1.44) in community transitional housing; 34 were adjudicated for violent offenses, while 75 were non-violent. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Social Bonding Scale-Theft (SBS-T), Social Bonding Scale-Violent Crime (SBS-VC), Positive and Negative Affect Scales (PANAS), Impulsiveness Scale-Short Form (IS-SF) and CRIME-PICS II were administered to measure self-esteem, life satisfaction, social bond, positive and negative affect, impulsivity, pro-offending attitudes, and self-perceived life problems. Data on onset age of delinquent behavior, age of first adjudication, number of prior adjudications, and frequency of self-reported delinquency in the past year were also collected. t-tests were consistent with significant differences for violent offenders including higher self-esteem (p < 0.05). Non-violent offenders self-reported significantly more theft (p < 0.05) with a tendency to deny victim hurt more often (p < 0.01); 76.5% of violent offenders self-reported both violent and non-violent crime, while 58.7% of non-violent offenders reported only non-violent crime. For violent and non-violent offenders, the onset of delinquency was inversely related to the frequency of self-reported delinquency. Using ordinary least-squares (OLS) regression analyses, self-anticipated violent reoffending risk was predicted by age of onset, frequency of self-reported delinquency, social bond (inversely), and impulsivity, while non-violent reoffending risk was predicted by the number of prior convictions and self-reported delinquency. Only two psychological correlates, social bond and impulsivity, were related to violent delinquency; interventions are suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Choon Oliver Chan
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, S.A.R.
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Pattishall AE, Cruz M, Spector ND. Intimate partner violence, mental health disorders, and sexually transmitted infections: important screening opportunities for pediatric healthcare providers. Curr Opin Pediatr 2011; 23:674-83. [PMID: 22001767 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0b013e32834cd6ab] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article addresses three critical areas where pediatric healthcare providers must employ effective screening techniques to ensure the best care for patients: intimate partner violence (IPV), mental health issues, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). RECENT FINDINGS IPV is now recognized as an important issue impacting the health of children. While long-term outcomes secondary to positive screening results are not known, routine, sensitive questioning can identify at-risk children and help connect families to resources in the community. Routine use of validated screening tools for mental health disorders (MHDs) in the office setting is now recommended. STIs disproportionately affect adolescents and young adults, yet timely diagnosis is often challenging because infections are frequently asymptomatic and adolescents may not be forthcoming about risk-taking behaviors. There is significant opportunity for pediatricians to improve screening rates of adolescents. SUMMARY Screening is an essential aspect of healthcare for pediatricians. An understanding of current screening recommendations for IPV, MHDs, and STIs will assist providers in earlier detection of medical problems in their patients and will likely improve patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Pattishall
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|