The prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms among sexually abused adolescents in Iceland : the importance of protective factors

The purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms among sexually abused adolescents and the moderating effects of protective factors, such as self-esteem and social support. The data used in this study were collected in 2014 by Icelandic Centre for Social Research and Analysis (ICSRA). Participants were 2509 Icelandic elementary students in 8th, 9th, and 10th grade and there were 1226 males and 1258 females. The results showed that depression and anxiety symptoms were higher if adolescents were sexually abused compared to those who were not sexually abused. Self-esteem and parental support had moderating effect on the relationship between CSA and symptoms of anxiety and depression whereas higher self-esteem and higher parental support had stronger effect on symptoms of depression and anxiety for sexually abused adolescents rather than those who were not sexually abused. Clinical psychologist could use these results to enhance their treatment with sexually abused adolescents and their parents, whereas good and supportive relationship from their parents is important for their mental health. Keywords: child sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, parental support

Author dc:creator

• Bryndís Ósk Birgisdóttir 1994-

Contributors dc:contributor

• Háskólinn í Reykjavík

• Sálfræði
• Kynferðislegt ofbeldi
• Unglingar
• Kvíði
• Þunglyndi
• Psychology
• Sexual abuse victims
• Adolescence
• Depression
• Anxiety

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1946/33187

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:skemman.is:1946/33187