SEXUAL ABUSE IN SENEGAL: CASES IN THREE DAKAR CENTERS

Study of the epidemiological profile of cases of sexual abuse, in quantitative components, based on the exploitation of victim files received at the centers, and qualitative components, centered on interviews with professionals involved in the care of victims. 78 cases, average age 14 (±7) years, enrolled in French schools (72%), from Dakar (85%), students (61%), under parental supervision (55.1%), less than 4 siblings (59%). The average age of the alleged perpetrators was 29 (±11) years, mostly acquaintances (51%) and/or parents (36%), and 69.23% with undetermined occupations. Sexual abuse, incestuous 18%, was most frequently linked to rape (68%) committed at the place of the alleged perpetrators (37.2%), followed by behavioral disorders (47%), pregnancy (15%), alcoholism and/or running away (12%). According to the professionals, the minors come from disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Judicial preoccupation, the first reaction, delays post-traumatic treatment. Management must include socio-economic development, information, education and communication, as well as prevention and the accessibility of functional structures staffed by motivated professionals who facilitate treatment.