Sexual assault and the adolescent

Pediatricians should follow established protocols and be especially sensitive to the psychological needs of adolescent rape victims, according to a policy statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Among middle- and high school students, 18% of girls and 12% of boys report unwanted sexual activity. Up to 25% of female college students and 6% of male college students report incidents fitting the legal definition of rape. Legally, lack of consent may be based on the victim's age, as in statutory rape, or incapacity to refuse, as when the victim is intoxicated. Care should address the immediate emotional needs of the victims and their families, the collection of evidence, the diagnosis and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy, and the victims' long-term psychological recovery. The pediatrician should refer patients to rape assessment teams, rape crisis centers, and for psychological counseling when appropriate. Pediatricians should also provide counseling and information on rape prevention as part of regular care.