Mental health correlates of the victim-perpetrator relationship among interpersonally victimized adolescents

J Interpers Violence. 2006 Oct;21(10):1333-53. doi: 10.1177/0886260506291654.

Abstract

This research examines mental health correlates of different victim-perpetrator relationships among adolescent victims of interpersonal violence. A large and nationally representative sample of adolescents (N = 4,023) responded to structured telephone interviews concerning mental health functioning (posttraumatic stress disorder-PTSD, major depressive disorder, substance abuse/dependence, and delinquency). Those reporting histories of sexual (n = 321) and/or physical (n = 688) assault were queried about specific aspects of their assaults, including their relationship with the perpetrator. After controlling for demographic and assault-related risk factors, the victim-perpetrator relationship remained a significant risk factor for mental health problems. Adolescents sexually assaulted by nonstrangers were at increased risk for PTSD; those sexually assaulted by acquaintances or people they did not know well were at increased risk for delinquency. Adolescents who were physically assaulted by a family member were at increased risk for PTSD. Explanations for the findings and the need for consistent assessment methods across related studies are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior*
  • Coercion
  • Comorbidity
  • Crime Victims / psychology
  • Crime Victims / statistics & numerical data*
  • Depression / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Juvenile Delinquency / statistics & numerical data
  • Male
  • Mental Health*
  • Regression Analysis
  • Risk Factors
  • Social Environment
  • Spouse Abuse / psychology
  • Spouse Abuse / statistics & numerical data*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / epidemiology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / epidemiology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States / epidemiology