Online sexual abuse frequency, associated risk factors and post traumatic stress disorder occurence among adolescent population of child and adolescent mental health

Aim: In accordance with definition of sexual abuse (SA) by the World Health Organization and definition of non-contact SA by Faller, "online sexual abuse (OSA)" can be defined as any sexually explicit conversation with child by using online platforms or mobile messaging programs, molestation verbally or by act, exposure of private parts by abuser, watching when child is naked or doing activities satisfying the abuser, viewing the child pornographically, and other sexually abusing behaviors. The aim of this study is to determine frequency of OSA and risk factors in adolescents aged between 12 and 16 years who consulted our child and adolescent psychiatry outpatient clinics and to make evaluations in terms of various mental and behavioral problems, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals exposed to OSA. Method: This study was conducted at İnönü University Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinic. 189 adolescents in age range of 12-16 years participated in the study. Psychiatric evaluation of the participants was performed by carrying out DSM-5-based interview, using strengths and difficulties questionnaire, and child post-traumatic stress reaction index. In addition, socio-demographic characteristics and internet use features and habits of the participants were recorded. Results: As a result of obtained data, it was determined that frequency of OSA was 21.1% and prevalence of PTSD in those exposed to OSA was 57.8%. In addition, it was found that numerous socio-demographic characteristics did not change risk of OSA but various properties and habits of internet use posed a risk. Discussion: When the results were evaluated, it was understood that the individuals, aged between 12 and 16 years, who consulted child and adolescent psychiatry outpatient clinics, were frequently exposed to OSA, and high PTSD, but they did not spontaneously share these traumas they experienced. Therefore, we think that it would have beneficial outcomes for child and adolescent psychiatrists to question OSA and to pay attention in terms of PTSD in clinical practice. We are also of the opinion that precautions taken by authorities, families, and adolescents for the risk factors we determined in the present study would be important with respect to preventive mental health.