Adolescent Sexual Violence in the Digital Era: A Case-Based Medico-Legal Study

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Authors: Meryem Bouchalta, Hicham BENHADDA, Bahia Belkaid, Ahmed Belhousse
Cited by: 0
References: 11

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital technologies has profoundly altered the contexts in which adolescents are exposed to certain forms of violence. Based on a six-month retrospective medico-legal study, this work examines cases of sexual violence involving minors, focusing on the role played by digital practices in the occurrence and progression of the events. The analysis reveals a range of configurations in which digital tools intervene at different stages of victimization trajectories. Psychological and social impact was frequently substantial, often contrasting with limited or absent physical findings at clinical examination. These findings highlight the relevance of a comprehensive medico-legal approach that systematically integrates the digital dimension in order to improve the identification and understanding of these complex situations among adolescents.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Bullying Victimization and Aggression Gender Feminism and Media Sexuality Behavior and Technology

Publication details

Journal / source
Cureus
Volume
18
Issue
1
Pages
e100613–e100613
Publication date
2 January 2026
Language
EN