"It all depends on the guy and the girl": A qualitative study of youth experiences with statutory victimization relationships

Dafna Tener, Wendy A. Walsh, Lisa M. Jones, Kelly Kinnish

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine youths' perceptions of statutory victimization relationships and youths' experience interacting with professionals. In-person qualitative interviews were conducted with 22 youths identified as statutory rape victims by two child advocacy centers. Using grounded theory, interviews were coded thematically using constant comparison analysis. The discussion of the relationship dynamics suggested a great deal of variation. Some youths described the relationships in exploitive terms. However, more typically, the interviewed youth described the relationship as reciprocal, even some time after it had ended. The professional intervention often resulted in feelings of helplessness for the youth. The results suggest creative and flexible protocols are needed for handling these cases that recognize adolescents' developing autonomy.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)935-956
Number of pages22
JournalJournal of Child Sexual Abuse
Volume23
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - 17 Nov 2014
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
Copyright © 2014 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Keywords

  • compliant victim
  • qualitative analysis
  • statutory rape
  • youth

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Pathology and Forensic Medicine
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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