Title: Risk Factors | Sexual Assault | INSPQ
Headings: Risk Factors
Risk Factors
A word of caution on the interpretation of risk factors
Factors associated with an increased risk of being sexually abused during childhood (0-18 years of age)
References

Content: Responsibility for sexual assault always lies with the perpetrator. Note on methodology: Generally speaking, the risk factors identified here apply mainly to sexual assault with physical contact. It should also be mentioned that many studies on the risk factors for sexual assault have focused on populations of victims and perpetrators who are known to the authorities and are receiving services. These populations are not representative of sexual assault victims and perpetrators as a whole. Victimization in childhood
Victimization in adulthood
Perpetration of sexual abuse
Factors associated with an increased risk of being sexually abused during childhood (0-18 years of age)
Anyone can be sexually assaulted during his or her lifetime. However, children and young people with certain characteristics account for a larger share of sexual abuse victims. Few factors have as yet been clearly identified by researchers as increasing the risk that a child or a young person will be sexually abused. However, it is well known that a child or young person’s stage of development and gender contribute to the risk. In addition, certain characteristics have been identified as being more likely to be found in families where children experience sexual abuse.