Young female survivors of sexual abuse in Malaysia and depression: What factors are associated with better outcome?

Abstract

Introduction:Research in the field of child sexual abuse is lacking in Malaysia. The aims of this study are to identify the association between sociodemographic factors and depression among sexually abused females. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 51 young sexually abused female attendees at the Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) clinic of Hospital Kuala Lumpur, a tertiary referral centre. Upon obtaining informed consent from participant and guardian, participants were screened for depression using the Strength and Difficulty Questionnaire (SDQ) and interviewed using the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School Aged Children (K-SADS) for depressive disorders and K-SADS-PL (Present and Lifetime version) to diagnose depression. Sociodemographic data and details of the abuse were also obtained. Results: Of the survivors, 33.3% were depressed. Univariate analysis showed significant association between legal guardianship, living environment and duration of abuse with depression, however, multivariate analyses later showed that the sole predictor for depression was living environment. Respondents who lived with others were 23-times more likely to be depressed as compared to those who lived with their parents. Discussion: Depression is common among young survivors of sexual abuse. Those who lived with parents appeared to have a better outcome. Thus, further research to explore possible protective factors associated with living with parents is vital. This will help clinicians develop strategies to empower parents and families help these young survivors get back on track with their lives despite the abuse.

Psychosocial Adjustment Among Abused Children in Residential Care

“…Emotional probems are closely related to anxiety, depression and anger caused by the stress they experience. In accordance to studies conducted by local researchers, they reported that victims of sexual abuse experienced confusions, guilt, fear, self blaming, emotional and trapped with the incidents (Wahab et al, 2013). This clearly shows that the effects of abuse are really serious as they will disrupt emotional balance and well being which later affect the individuals' psychological stability into adulthood.…”

“…Although abuse cases in Malaysia are getting worse, studies on cases and victims are unpopular and difficult to find (Wahab, Tan, Marimuthu, Razali, & Muhamad, 2013) especially those related to psychosocial adjustments studies involving victims of abuse are limited may be due to difficulties to access the respondents (Wahab et al, 2013). Very little information regarding life and roles of residential care are known in Malaysia (Raj & Raval, 2013).…”

Study of Child Sexually Abused Cases in Cairo Governorates in the Period from (2012) to (2016)

“…Child sexual abuse is one of the most stressful life events and is the outcome of a set of interrelated familial, social, psychological, and economic factors. CSA is associated with many adverse consequences, including physical and mental health problems, substance abuse, and criminality (Wahab et al, 2013).…”

Voices of Young Mothers on Relational Issues Leading to Out-of-Wedlock Pregnancy and its Protective Measures: A Qualitative Exploration

“…This so-called "unconsented" component of the sexual relationship may contribute to negative emotional outcomes and conflict in the abused victim, as documented in previous studies. 27,28 The lack of attention and loving relationships at home as described by some participants had driven them to desperately find happiness in relationships outside of the home; not surprisingly they would fall for any boy who claimed to love them and wanted to be their boyfriend. 7,25,29 These findings suggest the importance of imparting teenagers with the correct understanding of romantic relationship, physical boundaries in relationships and preserving own dignity and virginity until marriage.…”