Previously submitted to: Journal of Medical Internet Research (no longer under consideration since Jan 30, 2026)
Date Submitted: Sep 25, 2025
Open Peer Review Period: Sep 25, 2025 - Nov 20, 2025
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Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction and Mental Health Disorders Among Survivors of Sexual Abuse in Hungary: Implications for Trauma-Informed Care
ABSTRACT
Background:
Sexual abuse (SA) is a global public health concern with lasting effects on sexual and psychological well-being. While international research shows strong links between SA and adverse outcomes – such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), sexual dysfunction, and risky sexual behavior – data from Eastern Europe, including Hungary, remain limited.
Objective:
This study examined the long-term sexual and psychological impacts of SA in a large Hungarian sample, focusing on gender, sociodemographic factors, and underexplored areas like gender identity and trauma disclosure. Participants and Settings: A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 8846 young adults between September and December 2018. Participants were recruited via the university’s website and social media. The target demographic consisted of young adults between the ages of 18 and 35.
Methods:
Self-reports covered childhood SA history, sociodemographic data, and indicators of sexual and mental health. Statistical comparisons were made between SA survivors (n = 897; 10.1%) and non-abused participants.
Results:
Survivors reported higher rates of sexual dysfunction (40.4% vs. 24.7%), earlier sexual debut (15.97 vs. 16.60 years), and more frequent risky sexual behavior (e.g., casual sex: 69.6% vs. 57.3%; all p < .001). Female survivors showed elevated rates of hypoactive sexual desire, genito-pelvic pain disorder, and orgasmic dysfunction. Gender incongruence was more common among survivors (3.2% vs. 1.0%; p < .001), especially those who had never disclosed their trauma. Disclosure was associated with fewer adverse outcomes. Conclusion: These findings underscore the multifaceted effects of SA and reveal novel associations with gender identity and trauma secrecy in a large non-clinical Eastern European sample.
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