Sexual Violence in Adolescents

Sexual violence and intimate partner violence are common among adolescents, especially for those who are developmentally disabled. Pediatricians have a critical role in treating and preventing sexual violence in adolescents. As medical providers, they possess trusted access to identify sexual violence in adolescents and to intervene to help prevent further violence and mitigate associated health effects. Therefore, it is imperative that pediatricians are aware of the scope of sexual violence in adolescents. Specific sexual violence screening recommendations for sexual assault, intimate partner violence, reproductive coercion, and sex trafficking are reviewed in this article. In addition, recommendations for the comprehensive treatment of adolescents exposed to sexual violence are examined. National and local resources for victims and promising strategies to prevent sexual violence, including sex trafficking, are identified. Through collaboration with community partners in multidisciplinary efforts, pediatricians can most effectively promote the health of adolescents and prevent further victimization.