Childhood violence is associated with forced sexual initiation among girls and young women in Malawi: A cross-sectional survey

The study analyzed data from 595 women and girls, age 13 to 24-years-old, who ever had sex and participated in Malawi's 2013 Violence Against Children and Youth Survey (VACS). It estimated the overall prevalence of forced sexual initiation and identified subgroups with highest prevalences. Using logistic regression, it examined childhood violence and other independent predictors of forced sexual initiation.

Experiences of forced sexual initiation are common among Malawian females. Emotional violence is strongly associated with forced sexual initiation, alone and in combination with other forms of childhood violence. The relationship between emotional violence and forced sexual initiation highlights the importance of comprehensive strategies to prevent childhood violence.

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