Übersichtsarbeiten / Review Articles. Sexualisierte Gewalt und technologiegestützte sexualisierte Gewalt: Ein Überblick über die aktuelle Epidemiologie, Definitionen und deren Folgen für betroffene Kinder und Jugendliche / Sexual Abuse and Technology-Facilitated Sexual Abuse: An Overview of Current Epidemiology, Definitions, and Consequences for Affected Children and Adolescents.

Abstract

Sexual Abuse and Technology-Facilitated Sexual Abuse: An Overview of Current Epidemiology, Definitions, and Consequences for Affected Children and Adolescents Child sexual abuse represents a growing global problem, increasingly reflected in technologyfacilitated child sexual abuse. In Germany, a total of 18,085 cases of child sexual abuse were registered in 2024, while technology-facilitated abuse has risen sharply in recent years. In 2023, the number of cases involving the production, distribution, acquisition, and possession of abusive material reached a new peak of 45,191 cases (plus 7.4 %) and has more than tripled since 2019 (Bundeskriminalamt, 2024). There are fluid transitions between sexual abuse and technology-facilitated sexual abuse. The article examines the long-term psychosocial, physical, and neurobiological consequences for those affected, which are diverse and often extend to the entire social environment. Particular emphasis is placed on the specific burden of technology- facilitated abuse, where the digital presence of abusive material can lead to persistent feelings of helplessness and prolong the experience of abuse. In light of the persistently high rate of child sexual abuse and the increasing prevalence of technology-facilitated sexual abuse, the need for comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies is underscored. The article also emphasizes the importance of early awareness-raising and training to effectively support affected children and adolescents.