Abstract
Objective: Sexual violence is a persistent public health problem, particularly for adolescents. Identifying those most at risk enables the development of appropriate strategies to respond to sexual violence for these groups.
Methods: Using data from the Youth2000 series, a comprehensive, representative, cross-sectional youth health and wellbeing survey conducted in 2001, 2007, 2012 and 2019, the prevalence of unwanted sexual experiences in New Zealand adolescents are reported by demographic groups alongside trends over time.
Results: Sexual violence is widespread (12.4%) among adolescents, with girls (19%), Māori (15.3%), transgender (31.9%), sexual minorities (22.1%), those with long-term conditions (23.4%), those living in socio-economically deprived neighbourhoods (13.4%) and schools (15.3%), and those involved with statutory child protection (26.7%) experiencing higher prevalence. After an initial decline between 2001 and 2007, sexual violence increased from 2012 to 2019 (9.5% to 12.4%).
Conclusions: Some adolescent population groups experience a greater burden of sexual violence.
Implications for public health: A one-size-fits-all approach to prevention and service delivery is inappropriate in Aotearoa. Prevention strategies and services must support an intersectional approach recognising that inclusive, culturally and developmentally appropriate strategies are necessary to address inequity.