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<p>Street children are at a higher risk of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse. This study aims to examine the prevalence of sexual abuse among street children, addressing one of the most significant risks they face, which can have irreversible consequences for individuals and society as a whole. In this systematic review study, a comprehensive search was conducted across the PubMed, Embase, PsychInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science databases without restrictions on publication dates until January 2024. Following a thorough review of the relevant literature, an estimate of the prevalence of sexual abuse among child laborers was ultimately provided. The overall prevalence was 32.0%, decreasing to 29% when including studies that covered both childhood and part of adulthood. Abuse by family members was reported in 23% of cases, and 23% of street children engaged in exchange sex. The highest prevalence was found in low Human Development Index regions (32%) and the Euro region (32%), while the lowest was in the Eastern Mediterranean and Southeast Asia regions (21%). Prevalence fluctuated over time, peaking at 36% between 2001 and 2005. Approximately one-third of street children have experienced sexual abuse, a rate significantly higher than that of the general population. Factors such as poverty, homelessness, and inadequate protective systems heighten their vulnerability. The study underscores the urgent need for global interventions, including improved child protection systems, access to education and healthcare, and targeted support programs.</p>

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Sexual Abuse in Street Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年1月6日

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  • Masoumeh Mahmoodi,
  • Hamid Sharifi,
  • Razieh Zahedi,
  • Neda Malekmohammadi,
  • Maedeh Sharafoddin,
  • Elaheh Salarpour,
  • Azam Bazrafshan,
  • Ali Jandaghi,
  • Mehdi Najafi,
  • Maryam Chegeni

摘要

Street children are at a higher risk of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse. This study aims to examine the prevalence of sexual abuse among street children, addressing one of the most significant risks they face, which can have irreversible consequences for individuals and society as a whole. In this systematic review study, a comprehensive search was conducted across the PubMed, Embase, PsychInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science databases without restrictions on publication dates until January 2024. Following a thorough review of the relevant literature, an estimate of the prevalence of sexual abuse among child laborers was ultimately provided. The overall prevalence was 32.0%, decreasing to 29% when including studies that covered both childhood and part of adulthood. Abuse by family members was reported in 23% of cases, and 23% of street children engaged in exchange sex. The highest prevalence was found in low Human Development Index regions (32%) and the Euro region (32%), while the lowest was in the Eastern Mediterranean and Southeast Asia regions (21%). Prevalence fluctuated over time, peaking at 36% between 2001 and 2005. Approximately one-third of street children have experienced sexual abuse, a rate significantly higher than that of the general population. Factors such as poverty, homelessness, and inadequate protective systems heighten their vulnerability. The study underscores the urgent need for global interventions, including improved child protection systems, access to education and healthcare, and targeted support programs.