Objective: The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between sexual assault history and depression in adolescents. Method: The data were obtained from the Massachusetts Youth Risk Behaviors Survey (MYRBS) of 1997. The survey used a multistage clustering sampling design and was conducted through a self-administered questionnaire in classroom settings. As a part of the survey, each student was asked questions on history of sexual assault and depression. Results: 3,982 students in grades nine through twelve completed the survey. 461 of all students reported a history of sexual assault. In multivariate logistic regression analyses controlling for age, gender, and ethnicity, adolescents with a history of sexual assault were significantly more likely to have reported symptoms of depression such as seriously considering attempting suicide, having made a plan to commit suicide, or having attempted suicide in the 12 months prior to the survey. Conclusion: The results suggest an association between a history of sexual assault and depression in adolescents.
Learning Objectives: 1. Evaluate the relationship between sexual assault history and depression among adolescents 2. Recognize variation of depression symptoms among adolescents with sexual assault history
Keywords: Adolescents, Depression
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Massachusette Department of Education
Massachusette Department of Public Health
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.