Sexualized Violence Against Minors in Germany: An Unsettling Reality
Research: Millions of kids endure sexual abuse and exploitation worldwide
Berlin - Roughly one out of every five ladies in Germany has been subjected to sexualized violence during childhood or adolescence. A recently published study by the Central Institute of Mental Health in Mannheim has uncovered that an alarming 12.7% of individuals aged between 18 and 59 have been victims of such atrocities—approximately 5.7 million people[1]. Among females, the rate soars to a startling 20.6%, whereas 4.8% of males fall into this category[1]. These disquieting numbers have led psychiatrist Harald Dreßing, the study's coordinator, to remark, "The extent of such acts in Germany is simply staggering"[1].
This groundbreaking study, conducted jointly by several research institutions, presents a comprehensive view of the prevalence and distribution of these heinous acts across various crime scenes. Beyond the Catholic and Protestant churches, where instances of abuse have recently come to light, the new study has shed light on a largely neglected aspect of society[1]. Dr. Dreßing underscores the existence of "a significant dark field" of such offenses[1].
Frequency and Duration of Severe Acts
On average, the victims were approximately 11.2 years old when they first experienced sexualized violence. Nearly half of those targeted suffered such abuse repeatedly. Victims who were abused at a young age were far more likely to be subjected to multiple acts, with the abuse lasting an average of 3.4 years[1].
Widespread Crime Across Multiple Sectors
Taking a deeper look, Dr. Dreßing highlighted the alarming "diversity of crime" prevalent in German society[1]. Young women between 18 and 29 reported incidents of sexual assault at the highest rate, accounting for 27.4% of all cases[1]. Girls were most frequently targeted within their family and friend circle, with around a third of all cases occurring in this context[1].
Conversely, boys experienced sexual violence most often in sports and leisure facilities, within religious contexts, as well as children's, youth, and family aid programs[1]. "Sexual offenses can occur anywhere we would expect a safe haven for children," cautioned Dr. Dreßing[1].
Cyber-Threats Against Children
The modern era has brought online and social media platforms into the picture, with nearly 32% of respondents reporting instances of sexualized violence via the internet and social media[1]. Most prevalent were incidents of unwanted contact with pornographic material (18%) and unwanted sexual questions or conversations (approximately 10%)[1].
The Severity of Acts
Investigating the severity of the incidents, the researchers discovered that touching occurred in over 95% of all cases, and penetration was reported in 23.7%[1]. Shockingly, 95% of perpetrators were male[1]. The study asked about acts committed against those under 14 years old, as well as cases where individuals under 18 were subjected to sexual acts against their will, sexual harassment, or coercion, and attempts to recruit victims via the internet for future assaults[1].
Dr. Dressing noted, "Childhood sexualized violence is a traumatic experience that can irrevocably shatter a life." Many victims remain silent due to feelings of shame and guilt and fear of being disbelieved[1]. Over 37% of those affected came forward to the Mannheim researchers for the first time, while approximately 56% had already shared their experiences with someone[1]. Only 7% of victims had filed a police report, and 14% had undergone psychotherapy for sexualized violence[1].
To help reduce these distressing numbers, Dr. Dressing called for increased research to facilitate the development of targeted protection strategies for institutions and homes[1]. Emphasizing the importance of addressing issues within families, the researcher stressed the necessity of raising awareness and reaching a wider audience with information about support services.
- The recently published study on sexualized violence in Germany revealed that, beyond religious institutions, sexual offenses can occur in various other sectors, such as family and friend circles, sports and leisure facilities, and children's, youth, and family aid programs.
- Among the alarming findings of the study was the prevalence of cyber-threats against children, with nearly 32% of respondents reporting instances of sexualized violence via the internet and social media.
- With the publication of this comprehensive study, the scope of sexualized violence in Germany has become clearer, showing that it is a pressing issue affecting mental health, general news, and crime and justice, particularly in relation to the serious, long-term impacts on the health and wellness of victims.
