Poster #231 - Peer Norms and Peer Networks of Young Adolescents with Sexual Abuse Histories

• In Event: 2-055 - Poster Session 06
  In Poster Session: PS 06 Section - Social Relationships

Integrative Statement

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a risk factor for numerous psychosocial problems, including difficulties in romantic and sexual relationships. This study examines whether a history of CSA is uniquely associated with characteristics of young adolescents’ peer networks and their perceived peer norms for dating and sexual behavior. Each of these factors is associated with risk behaviors like precocious sexual behavior in normative samples of adolescent (Boislard & Poulin, 2011; Buhi & Goodson, 2007). Less is known about these associations among vulnerable youth; however, such information is important for understanding how CSA might distort romantic/sexual development.

Data came from interviews with 93 urban dwelling, middle school girls (Mage 12.47; 80.2% African American) who participated in a longitudinal study of female development. Study data includes information obtained at Time 1 about sexual abuse history, cumulative exposure to interpersonal violence, pubertal development, adolescents’ perceptions of friends’ participation in various dating activities and sexual behaviors (i.e., peer norms), and characteristics of peer networks (e.g., number and gender of peers in network).

Cumulative IPV was associated with peer demographics and perceived norms. Even after controlling for IPV, a history of CSA was associated with peer norms of greater participation in hand-holding, touching above clothes, touching under clothes, and sexual intercourse. Results indicate that CSA history may play a unique role in girls’ perceived peer norms regarding sexual behavior.

Authors

• Steven Proudfoot, Wayne State University
  Presenting Author

• Farraton White, Wayne State University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Valerie Simon, Wayne State University
  Non-Presenting Author