ASSOCIATION BETWEEN SEXUAL ABUSE IN CHILDHOOD OR ADOLESCENCE AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF MENTAL DISORDERS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

This systematic review sought to analyze and synthesize the scientific evidence regarding the association between exposure to childhood or adolescent sexual abuse and the development of psychopathological disorders and manifestations in adulthood. The methodology followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and the PECO strategy, searching MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS (via VHL), and SciELO for primary observational studies. Following screening and critical appraisal using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tools, 86 studies were included in the final qualitative synthesis. The results demonstrated a consistent positive association between childhood sexual abuse and long-term mental health impairments, particularly major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal behavior. Relevant associations were also observed with anxiety disorders, harmful alcohol and substance use, and psychotic spectrum manifestations. The risk and severity of outcomes varied according to the extent of exposure, co-occurrence of other traumatic events, and psychosocial vulnerability factors. In conclusion, childhood sexual abuse constitutes a major risk factor and vulnerability for psychological distress in adulthood, requiring attentive and trauma-informed clinical care. However, the predominance of retrospective measures and the methodological heterogeneity among studies highlight the need for further longitudinal and prospective research to clarify the causal mechanisms and overall magnitude of these associations.