Service-seeking behaviors among male victims of violence in five African countries: The effects of positive and adverse childhood experiences

As part of a Child Abuse and Neglect Journal special issue on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), this study analyzes the association between positive and adverse childhood experiences (PCEs and ACEs), and seeking post-violence services among males. Violence against boys and men is widely under-reported. Boys and men face unique and gendered barriers to accessing services following experiences of violence.

Using data from the Violence Against Children and Youth Survey (VACS) in Cote d'Ivoire, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Namibia, the study finds that while some parent-youth relationship factors are associated with higher odds of service-seeking, the outcome remained rare. Age and gender-related barriers should be addressed where post-violence care services are offered.

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