Title : Prevalence and determinants of sexual coercion among adolescents in Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract:
Background: Sexual coercion poses a serious threat to adolescent health and wellbeing, leading to immediate psychological distress and long-term social and health consequences. Despite increasing attention to adolescent protection, evidence on the magnitude and determinants of sexual coercion remains limited, particularly in socially sensitive settings where under-reporting is common. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of sexual coercion and examine its socio-demographic determinants among adolescents in Madhya Pradesh, India.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescents aged 10-19 years across six districts of Madhya Pradesh. Participants were selected using multistage stratified random sampling. Data were collected from 3,213 adolescents through a pre-tested structured questionnaire covering experiences of sexual coercion, socio-demographic characteristics, and attitudes toward gender roles and violence. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of sexual coercion.
Results: Overall, 6.47% of adolescents reported experiencing sexual coercion. On multivariate analysis, male gender (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=2.24), increasing age (aOR=1.45), current employment (aOR=1.63), and paternal unemployment (aOR=3.01) were significantly associated with higher odds of sexual coercion. Urban residence was found to be protective (aOR=0.60). No statistically significant association was observed between traditional gender role attitudes and experiences of sexual coercion.
Conclusion: Sexual coercion among adolescents in Madhya Pradesh remains an under-recognized public health issue. Targeted prevention strategies should prioritize vulnerable subgroups, strengthen safe disclosure mechanisms, address occupational risks among working adolescents, and enhance digital safety awareness. Community-based education and accessible support systems are essential to prevent sexual coercion and ensure timely care for affected adolescents.
Keywords: Adolescents, Sexual Coercion, Prevalence, Determinants, India
