Child sexual abuse as a risk factor for teen dating violence: Findings from a representative sample of Quebec youth

Child sexual abuse is a known risk factor for victimization in adult intimate relationships, but less is known about its role in teens’ first romantic relationships. In a large, representative survey of Quebec high school students, those who had been sexually abused as children were more likely to experience psychological, physical and sexual dating violence, even after accounting for other interpersonal trauma. The added risk appeared stronger for boys than for girls. The findings point to a clear need for prevention and intervention for sexually abused youth as they enter adolescence and begin dating.