Exploring Sexual Abuse, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Alcohol Use among Asian American Adults.

Abstract

Childhood sexual abuse is prevalent across various communities of different socio-demographic backgrounds. Although existing literature on adverse childhood experiences and childhood sexual abuse tends to focus on various races across the spectrum, Asian American adults are often underrepresented due to the cultural stigma associated with sexual abuse. The current study aims to investigate childhood sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences, and alcohol use among Asian American adults belonging to different income and education levels. Participants and Setting: The current study used a secondary analysis of the 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey conducted by the CDC. In 2021, BRFSS interviewed 438,693 individuals via phone. Of these, N = 12,546 individuals self-identified as Asians for the "preferred race." The descriptives suggest that of the N = 12,546 Asian American adults (5.9%, n = 738) reported experiencing sexual abuse, and (94.1%, n = 11,808) either refused to answer the question or did not know the answer. Furthermore, linear and bivariate regression analyses were conducted to understand the relationship between variables. The evidence of significant associations between CSA, ACEs, and any recent alcohol use is consistent with the idea that cultural stigma, family norms, gendered expectations, and individual coping strategies may influence both the occurrence and reporting of CSA. Understanding and addressing these factors are essential for promoting the overall health and well-being of Asian American communities.