- Childhood sexual abuse is common, underreported, taboo for patients and clinicians, and existing screening questionnaires have limitations.
- Researchers designed and validated an indirect screening questionnaire through a two-round Delphi study with patients, primary care academics, and international experts.
- Consensus achieved on ten indirect items addressing physical health, chronic pain, sleep, smoking, weight, self-harm, pregnancy, sexual health, self-esteem, and domestic violence.
Encephale. 2026 Jul 27:S0013-7006(26)00129-6. doi: 10.1016/j.encep.2026.03.023. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Sexual abuse during childhood is common. Many patients have experienced this type of violence and suffered long-term consequences. The subject is taboo for both patients and doctors, and existing questionnaires have shortcomings. Our research has led us to design and validate a test to screen for individuals who have experienced childhood sexual abuse.
METHOD: A two-round Delphi study was conducted with three groups: patients, academic members of a primary care research unit, and international experts.
RESULTS: We were able to reach consensus on ten indirect questions concerning physical health, chronic pain, sleep, smoking, weight, self-harm, pregnancy, sexual health, self-esteem, and domestic violence.
PMID:42509059 | DOI:10.1016/j.encep.2026.03.023
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