Sexually Abused Male Adolescents: How Vulnerable Are They?

ABSTRACT

This study examined the suicidal involvement, disordered eating behaviors, sexual risk taking, delinquent behaviors, substance use and school performance of male teenagers with a reported history of sexual abuse. With the exception of school performance, this group had higher rates of adverse correlates in these areas than the comparison group without a history of abuse. Among index group members, protective factors against adverse correlates included a higher maternal education, emotional well-being and perceived caring from parents. Risk factors that increased the likelihood of adverse correlates included perceived substance use in school and family stresses.