Sexual re-victimisation of adolescent girls in institutional care with a history of sexual violence in childhood: empirical results and conclusions for prevention

Abstract

The article explores the issue of sexual re-victimisation, based on a short-term longitudinal study of adolescent girls in residential care in Germany. Using qualitative and standardised instruments, the study examined the frequency and conditions of re-victimisation occurring within a set time period and the possibilities and difficulties of preventing the recurrence of sexual violence, including psychological and social consequences of sexual abuse. The research found that despite traumatic problems and psychological disorders, for the girls and young women in residential care improvement towards lesser vulnerability after sexual abuse and other forms of endangerment was possible.