Global Prevalence of Sexual Violence Against Children

Sexual violence against children is a global concern, yet worldwide figures of its prevalence are scant.

To estimate the global prevalence of sexual violence against children using national-level population-based studies. Data Sources: We searched the PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, ERIC, and APA PsycArticles databases from their respective inceptions to March 2022. Searches were updated through April 2024. Study Selection: Reports were included if (1) they were national-level population-based studies, (2) they reported lifetime or past-year prevalence data on any form of sexual violence against children (mean age ≤19 years), and (3) the data were based on children's self-reports of sexual violence perpetrated by anyone. Data Extraction and Synthesis: Data extraction included study and participant characteristics, prevalence rates, and types of sexual violence. Outcomes were pooled using a random-effects model. Exploratory subgroup analyses were performed with categorical moderators. Main Outcomes and Measures: Primary outcomes included lifetime and past-year prevalence of forced sexual intercourse, contact sexual violence, and sexual harassment.