Home > Review Articles > Ethnic disparities > Sexual violence and unwanted sexual experiences among adolescents: Prevalence, trends and disparities among a representative cross-sectional study of high school students in Aotearoa New Zealand

Sexual violence and unwanted sexual experiences among adolescents: Prevalence, trends and disparities among a representative cross-sectional study of high school students in Aotearoa New Zealand

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 120
Authors:
  • Roskvist R et al.
Summary:

Māori adolescents experience a greater burden of sexual violence than the general adolescent population in New Zealand, according to a study using Youth2000 data. The overall prevalence of sexual violence among adolescents was 12.4% in 2019, an increase from 9.5% in 2012. Prevalence was higher in girls (19%), Māori (15.3%), and those in socioeconomically deprived schools (15.3%) and neighbourhoods (13.4%). However, even higher rates of sexual violence occurred in transgender adolescents (31.9%), those involved with statutory child protection (26.7%), those with long-term conditions (23.4%), and sexual minorities (22.1%).

Comment:
This study showing the extent of sexual violence among rangatahi Māori is deeply concerning because (1) this type of violence destroys rangatahi flourishing and (2) it reflects the fact that we aren’t adequately protecting Māori young people. Addressing this requires prevention and support approaches that are Māori-led – grounded in kaupapa Māori values and tackling broader determinants.
Reference: Aust N Z J Public Health. 2026;50(1):100292.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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