Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #109331

Margaret L. Griffin, PhD, Maryann Amodeo, PhD, Cassandra Clay, MSW, Michael Ellis, MSW, and Irene Fassler, MSW. School of Social Work, Boston University, 264 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215, 617-855-2768, mlgriffin@aol.com

Few studies have compared race differences in childhood sexual abuse (CSA) with statistical controls for structural variables such as socioeconomic status and family structure. Differences in CSA between black women and white women were explored in a community sample of 290 women raised in two-parent families. Subjects represented a heterogeneous population, varied in age, years of education, income, and marital and employment status. CSA prevalence, characteristics, and immediate aftermath were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire and a face-to-face structured interview. Overall prevalence of CSA was 28%. Various models to predict CSA were examined using logistic regression. Initial analyses showed more CSA among black women (odds ratio=1.8); this difference was reduced somewhat when family structure and father's education were controlled (odds ratio=1.5). Results were supported by strong sibling agreement, at 77% for CSA. The presence of a stepfather or working mother did not alter these relationships. The characteristics and aftermath of CSA reported by black women and white women were remarkably similar. This study highlights the importance of separating the effects of family structure and socioeconomic status from race, but also suggests that race differences in CSA may not be explained by these factors alone. Further research is needed to replicate these findings on a larger sample and to specify whether cultural, economic, or other factors account for any race differences. Efforts to design CSA prevention programs targeted at women on the basis of race would be premature.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant will be able to
• Describe race differences in prevalence and characteristics of childhood sexual abuse (CSA)
• Identify risk and protective factors for CSA

Keywords: African American, Sexual Assault

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.