Explaining lower rates of sexual abuse in China

Finkelhor, David; Ji, Kai; Mikton, Christopher; Dunne, Michael

Abstract

Accumulating research suggests that rates of child sexual abuse are comparatively low in China. This commentary is an effort to evaluate whether it reflects a true lower prevalence or alternatively the effect of inhibited disclosure by victims. We conclude that while some estimates have almost certainly been affected by inhibited disclosure, the overall magnitude of the contrast between Chinese and international rates, particularly for girls, and its consistency with other indicators do suggest a true lower prevalence, although the evidence is equivocal. We discuss some factors that could account for such lower rates including Confucian family values, definitions of masculinity and a collectivist culture that may be protective. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 17, 2013
• Publication Date: Oct 1, 2013
• Journal: Child Abuse and Neglect
• Print ISSN: 01452134
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 37
• Issue: 10
• Pages: 852-860
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2013.07.006
• Keywords: child sexual abuse, China
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/937976
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2013.07.006