At Risk: The Relationship between Experiences of Child Sexual Abuse and Women's HIV Status in Papua New Guinea

• NCJ Number: 240396
• Journal: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 21 Issue: 3 Dated: May - June 2012 Pages: 272-294
• Author(s): Ione R. Lewis
• Date Published: June 2012
• Length: 23 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: National Aids Council of Papua New Guinea
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study aimed to develop knowledge about the link between violence experienced by women and their HIV status.

Abstract

Child sexual abuse in Papua New Guinea is a human rights issue as well as an indicator of HIV risk in women. This study aimed to develop knowledge about the link between violence experienced by women and their HIV status. The study used a mixed method approach to collect quantitative and qualitative data through structured interviews with a sample of 415 women across 4 provinces of Papua New Guinea: National Capital District, Western Highlands, Western, and Morobe. Participants were asked about violence they had experienced as children and in their adult relationships and the impact of the violence. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, and qualitative data was coded using a thematic approach. Child sexual abuse was reported by 27.5 percent of the sample (n=114). Women reporting child sexual abuse were more likely to live in violent relationships, be HIV positive, and have a higher number of sexual partners. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.