Prevention Programs for Child and Adolescent Sexual Violence: Systematic Literature Review
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Abstract
Sexual violence against children and adolescents is a serious social and public health problem. Prevention programs have demonstrated efficacy in developing self-protection skills, as well as in preventing and reporting such cases. This study aimed to describe and analyze the main methodologies and intervention strategies used in these programs. Conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (ID CRD42021258458), the review used the PICOS strategy to guide the research in the MEDLINE (PubMed), BVS, SciELO, and PsycINFO databases. Studies with experimental or observational designs were included, while systematic reviews were excluded. There were no restrictions regarding date or language. Of the 1,207 articles initially identified, 23 met the eligibility criteria. An increase in publications was observed starting in 2014, peaking in 2019. Most studies were conducted in the United States (43.5%), highlighting differences in program content between countries and the need for cultural adaptations. Twenty-six categories of educational objectives were identified, with an emphasis on developing self-protection skills (73.91%), recognizing risky situations (56.52%), and differentiating between appropriate and inappropriate touches (52.17%). Overall, the programs increased the likelihood of reporting sexual violence among participants. The absence of specific literature in Brazil underscores the need for research to evaluate the efficacy and adaptability of these programs to the national context. The expansion of evidence-based interventions is recommended as a protective measure for children and adolescents.
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