PREVALENCE AND IMPACT OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE ON ADOLESCENTS IN MOJOKERTO REGENCY Noer Saudah1. Indah Lestari2. Chasiru Zainal Abidin3. Universitas Bina Sehat PPNI Mojokerto Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Majma'al Bahroin Corresponding Email: noersaudah15@gmail. ABSTRACT Keywords Sexual violence is a serious issue in maternity nursing as it directly impacts reproductive health, including physical trauma, damage to reproductive organs, unwanted pregnancies, and prolonged psychological trauma. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of sexual violence among adolescents in Mojokerto Regency and describe its forms and impacts. The research employed a descriptive design, conducted in Mojokerto Regency from July to September 2025. A total of 220 respondents were selected using accidental The study variables included the prevalence of sexual violence incidents and their impacts, measured using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution. The results showed that 118 adolescents . 7%) had experienced sexual violence. The most common type was verbal harassment . 7%), followed by a combination of verbal and physical violence . 6%), physical violence . %), and chat calling . 7%). The most significant impact experienced by victims was social . 8%), followed by combined physical-psychological-social impacts . 7%), 7%), spiritual . 4%), physical . 2%), and physicalpsychological . 2%). The dominance of female victims reflects the influence of patriarchal culture and gender inequality. The prevalence of verbal violence indicates low public awareness that certain utterances constitute harassment. Sexual violence often leads to social isolation, necessitating holistic management to enable adolescents to recover in a safe and supportive Prevalence. Sexual Violence. Adolescents INTRODUCTION Maternal nursing focuses on providing care for women of reproductive age, pregnant women, women in labor, postpartum mothers, newborns, and reproductive health across all stages of life, including adolescence. Adolescent girls, within their life cycle, are particularly vulnerable to becoming victims of sexual This issue is an important International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Science (IJNMS). Volume 9. Issue 3. December 2025 component of maternal nursing because it affects reproductive health, including physical trauma, reproductive organ injuries, unwanted pregnancies, and psychological In certain cases, maternal nursing may also need to address mental health problems associated with sexual violence, such as depression, anxiety, or posttraumatic stress. Thus, sexual violence among adolescents has significant and relevant connections with maternal nursing in various aspects. Sexual violence is a serious global issue with destructive impacts, especially among adolescents. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2. , approximately 1 in 5 women and 1 in 13 men experience sexual violence before the age of Adolescents are in a vulnerable developmental stage, making them more likely to become victims. Sexual violence can lead to both short-term and long-term consequences, including mental health disorders, psychological trauma, and persistent physical problems (Devries et al. The Provincial Government of East Java reports that sexual violence is often the most frequently reported form of violence. Access to services, active civil society organizations and NGOs, as well as supportive infrastructure influence the number of reported cases 15 (Mulugeta et , 2. Sexual violence against adolescents can occur anywhereAiat home, outside the home, in public areas, and within educational settings. A report from the Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI) (Jaringan Pemantau Pendidikan Indonesia [JPPI], 2. indicates that violence in educational environments has increased by more than 100 percent. Incidents of sexual violence in Mojokerto Regency over the past five years have shown a concerning rise. Research suggests that social and cultural factors contribute to the high rate of sexual violence in the region. Research on sexual violence among adolescents is essential and cannot be First, adolescents often lack adequate support to report the violence they A study by Mulugeta et al. (Mulugeta et al. , 2. found that unwanted pregnancies, stigma, and fear of social consequences often prevent adolescents from seeking help. Second, a thorough understanding of factors that influence sexual violenceAisuch as knowledge of reproductive functions, pregnancy, social norms, family dynamics, and peer pressureAiis crucial for designing effective prevention strategies (Pyrez et al. , 2. With the continuous rise in reported cases each year, there is a clear need for more serious efforts from both the government and society. Therefore, research on the prevalence and impact of sexual violence among adolescents in Mojokerto Regency is highly warranted. This study is important for understanding the scale of the problem, thereby informing more effective policies and prevention programs. With accurate data, it becomes possible to identify risk factors and establish appropriate strategies to protect victims and prevent future incidents of sexual violence. METHOD This study employed a descriptive research design with a quantitative Data were collected using a questionnaire distributed online through the Google Form application. The subjects in this study were adolescents aged 12 to 24 years who resided in Mojokerto Regency. The sample was selected using an accidental sampling technique, resulting in a total of 220 respondents who agreed to complete the The instrument used was a digital questionnaire consisting of several questions related to the variables under investigation. The research procedure began with the International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Science (IJNMS). Volume 9. Issue 3. December 2025 preparation of the research proposal, followed by submitting a research permit request to the relevant institutions. After coordinated with the study location for the respondent recruitment process. The next step involved data collection through questionnaire distribution, and the data were then analyzed after undergoing processing. Data analysis was conducted quantitatively using statistical frequency distribution to describe the characteristics and impacts experienced by the respondents. The findings of the study were subsequently disseminated in the form of a scientific RESULTS Table 1. Respondent Characteristics. Characteristics Age 12 Ae 16 years 17 Ae 19 years 20 Ae 24 years Total Frequency Percentage Sex Male Female Total Current Education Level Junior High School Senior High Schoo College/University Others Total Based on Table 1, most of the respondents were in the 20Ae24-year age group, totaling 147 respondents . 8%). In terms of gender, the majority of respondents were female, with 185 individuals . 1%). Meanwhile, regarding education level, most respondents were currently pursuing higher . 3%). Table 2. Prevalence of Sexual Violence Among Respondents. Sexual Violence Experien Violence Did Not Experien Total Female . umber 46,4% Male . umber 7,3% Freque 37,7% 8,6% 46,3% 53,7% Table 2 shows that the prevalence of sexual violence was 118 respondents . 6%) who were identified as having experienced sexual violence. When viewed by gender, the majority of victims were female, totaling 102 individuals . 4%), experiencing sexual violence. Meanwhile, 102 respondents . 4%) had not experienced sexual violence, consisting of 83 females . 7%) and 19 males . 6%). Table 3. Types of Sexual Violence Experienced by Respondents in Mojokerto Regency. Type of Violence Verbal Verbal harassment and physical contact Physical Inappropriate messages on social media Total Frequency Percentage 40,7% 29,6% 12,7% International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Science (IJNMS). Volume 9. Issue 3. December 2025 Table 3 illustrates that the most frequently experienced form of sexual violence was verbal harassment, reported by 48 respondents . 8%), followed by a combination of verbal harassment and unwanted physical touching, experienced by 35 respondents . 9%). Physical violence was reported by 20 respondents . 1%), while inappropriate or explicit messages on social media were experienced by 15 respondents . 8%). Overall, a total of 118 respondents experienced various forms of sexual violence, with a cumulative percentage of 44. Table 4. Impacts of Sexual Violence Experienced by Respondents in Mojokerto Regency. Impact Psychological . Psychological and physical Physical . njuries, bruise. and pain Social . eelings of shame, low self-estee. Psychological, physical, and Affects Total Frequency Percentage 12,7% 4,2% 7,2% 44,8% 22,7% 8,4% Table 4 presents the various impacts of sexual violence experienced by adolescent respondents in Mojokerto Regency. Based on data from 118 respondents, it was found that multiple forms of consequences emerged as a result of the incidents they experienced. The most dominant impact was social consequences, such as feelings of shame and low selfesteem, reported by 53 respondents . 8%). A combination of psychological, physical, and social impacts was experienced by 27 respondents . 7%), while psychological impacts aloneAiincluding anxiety, learning depressionAiwere experienced by 15 respondents . 7%). Psychological and physical impacts were reported by 5 respondents . 2%), and physical impacts aloneAisuch as bruises, injuries, or painAiwere experienced by 7 respondents . 2%). In addition, 10 respondents . 4%) reported experiencing spiritual impacts. Overall, a total of 118 respondents . 7%) experienced one or more types of impact, indicating that more than half of the respondents were significantly affected. DISCUSSION Prevalence of Sexual Violence Experienced by Adolescents The prevalence of sexual violence experienced by adolescents is an important indicator for understanding their current psychosocial well-being. Based on the data obtained, a total of 118 respondents . 7%) were identified as having experienced sexual violence. When examined by gender, the majority of victims were female, totaling 102 individuals . 4%), while 16 males . 3%) reported experiencing sexual Meanwhile, 102 respondents . 3%) had not experienced sexual violence, consisting of 83 females . 7%) and 19 males . 6%). These findings indicate that sexual violence is more commonly experienced by females than males, which is consistent with previous studies showing that females are more vulnerable to sexual violence due to social and cultural factors that reinforce gender inequality (WHO, 2. According to feminist theory, sexual International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Science (IJNMS). Volume 9. Issue 3. December 2025 violence against women reflects the deeply rooted patriarchal power structure in society, making women a highly vulnerable group (Hooks, 2. The findings of this study strengthen the understanding that gender inequality continues to have a significant influence on the risk of sexual violence among adolescents. Internalized gender disparities from an early age place females in a more vulnerable social position, while males tend to hold dominant roles within gender relations. This aligns with the (WHO, 2. report emphasizing that power relations, cultural biases, and gender stereotypes are key determinants that increase the risk of females becoming victims of sexual violence. Furthermore, the vulnerability of adolescent girls is heightened by the socio-emotional adolescence, a phase in which they are still learning to understand personal The lower percentage of males experiencing sexual violence does not imply that they are fully protected. Several recent studies indicate that sexual violence against males is often underreported due to masculinity stigma, feelings of shame, and the societal assumption that males must always appear strong and cannot be victims (Smith et al. , 2. Therefore, the figure 3% may not accurately represent the actual situation, as cases of sexual violence against males are likely This highlights the need for prevention efforts that are inclusive and not solely focused on females. In addition to gender factors, modern social dynamics also contribute to increasing adolescent vulnerability, particularly through social media use and digital interactions. Recent research shows that technology-facilitated sexual violenceAisuch as online verbal harassment, coerced sexting, and digital groomingAiis increasingly frequent among adolescents (Johnson & Lee. With widespread technology use, adolescents are at risk of encountering perpetrators who use digital platforms to access and manipulate potential victims. This may contribute to the overall increase in the prevalence of sexual Furthermore, a study by Smith et (Smith et al. , 2. emphasizes that adolescentsAiparticularly reproductive health, digital literacy, and personal boundariesAican reduce the risk of sexual violence. Empowering adolescent girls by enhancing selfconfidence, decision-making skills, and the ability to refuse harmful actions has also proven effective in reducing Experts further highlight the importance of strengthening gender equality values and providing safe spaces where adolescents can report experiences of sexual violence without fear or stigma (Johnson & Lee, 2. Based on the results of this study, the researcher assumes that the high prevalence of sexual violence among intervention efforts. These efforts include empowering girls, transforming social norms underlying gender inequality, improving literacy related to digitalbased sexual violence, and implementing multisectoral interventions involving families, schools, healthcare providers. Nonjudgmental psychosocial support for victims is crucial to minimizing the long-term International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Science (IJNMS). Volume 9. Issue 3. December 2025 impacts of sexual violence on mental health, social development, and the overall well-being of adolescents. Types of Sexual Violence Experienced by Adolescents in Mojokerto Regency The most frequently reported type of sexual violence was verbal respondents . 7%), followed by a combination of verbal harassment and unwanted physical touching reported by 35 respondents . 6%). Physical violence was experienced by 20 respondents . %), while inappropriate or explicit messages on social media were reported by 15 respondents . 7%). In total, 118 respondents experienced various forms of sexual violence, representing 53. These findings indicate that verbal forms of violenceAieither alone or combined with physical contactAiare the most dominant types of sexual violence among adolescents, while digital-based violence has also emerged as a form that requires serious attention. Data in Table 2 show that verbal harassment is the most common type of adolescents in Mojokerto Regency, with a frequency of 48 cases . 7%). Verbal harassment refers to the use of degrading, humiliating, or threatening language toward the victim. Verbal sexual violence includes statements, comments, flirtations, or jokes with unwanted sexual elements (Liszari et al. , 2. This form of violence is often not recognized as violence, yet it can cause deep psychological harm (Nasution et al. Several factors contribute to the high occurrence of verbal sexual violence among adolescents. One contributing factor is the lack of awarenessAiboth perpetrators and victims may not realize that certain remarks or comments fall into the category of sexual harassment (Mariyona et al. , 2. This lack of awareness stems from insufficient understanding of clear boundaries in social and sexual interactions (Agustina Noviasari. Another contributing factor is permissive social norms: in some social environments, sexually charged remarks or jokes are considered normal or AuhumorousAy (Pahmi et al. , 2. This normalization may cause victims to hesitate in reporting such incidents. Additionally, unequal power relations play a significant role. Sexual violence, including verbal forms, is often linked to power misuse. Perpetrators may feel entitled to comment on the victimAos body or sexuality due to age, gender, or social status differences (Nguyen & Patel. The use of social media can also serve as a platform for perpetrators to commit verbal sexual violence, such as through degrading comments or Online anonymity may further embolden perpetrators to act. Furthermore, a combination of verbal harassment and unwanted physical touching was reported in 35 cases . 6%). Sexual violence involving both verbal and physical components creates dual impactsAipsychological and The biopsychosocial theory explains that when violence involves both verbal and physical elements, its effects become more complex because physical pain occurs simultaneously with psychological trauma, potentially leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic anxiety (Engel, 2. Therefore, interventions in such cases must address both physical and psychological recovery simultaneously. International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Science (IJNMS). Volume 9. Issue 3. December 2025 Pure physical violence, reported in 20 cases . %), causes immediate impacts such as injuries, pain, and other physical health problems. Medical and psychosocial theories emphasize that physical injuries resulting from sexual violence not only threaten bodily health but also trigger psychological distress due to persistent pain and fear (Nguyen & Patel, 2. These conditions can worsen the victimAos quality of life if appropriate medical treatment and psychological support are not provided. Lastly, inappropriate or obscene messages on social media were reported in 15 cases . 7%). This form of digital violence has significant social and feelings of shame and stress caused by harassment occurring in virtual public Modern communication theories highlight that online violence may lead to long-term effects such as social isolation and psychological disturbances because victims may feel unsafe even in their everyday environments (Smith et al. Therefore, addressing digitalbased sexual violence requires digital literacy education and robust legal Based on the data and theories concludes that protecting adolescents from all forms of sexual violence must be carried out holistically and contextually. Integrated interventionsAicovering psychological, physical, and social dimensions, as well as digital education and regulatory measuresAiare essential to minimizing the negative impacts of various types of sexual violence. The Impact of Sexual Violence Experienced by Adolescents in Mojokerto Regency Table 4 presents the various impacts of sexual violence experienced by 118 adolescents in Mojokerto Regency. The most dominant impact was social consequences such as shame and low self-esteem, reported by 53 respondents . 8%). A combination of psychological, physical, and social impacts was experienced by 27 . 7%), psychological impacts aloneAiincluding anxiety, learning difficulties, and depressionAiwere reported by 15 respondents . 7%). Psychological and physical impacts were experienced by 5 respondents . 2%), and physical impacts alone, such as wounds, bruises, or pain, were reported by 8 respondents . 2%). In addition, 10 respondents . 4%) experienced spiritual impacts. Overall, 115 respondents . experienced one or more types of impact, indicating that more than half of the respondents were significantly affected. These findings show that sexual violence leads to multidimensional consequences affecting various aspects of adolescentsAo lives, highlighting the need for The impacts of sexual violence among adolescents in Mojokerto Regency show diverse consequences that affect the psychological, physical, social, and spiritual aspects of the victims. Based on the data, psychological impacts such as anxiety, learning difficulties, and depression were experienced by 15 respondents, or 6. 8% of the total 220 These consequences can be explained through the traumatic stress theory, which posits that traumatic events such as sexual International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Science (IJNMS). Volume 9. Issue 3. December 2025 violence can result in mental health disturbances including anxiety and depression (Breslau, 2. Moreover, such psychological trauma may hinder adolescentsAo learning abilities and cognitive development, as stated by Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 2. , which emphasizes that trauma disrupts learning processes and social Combined psychological and physical impacts were reported by 5 respondents . 2%), while purely physical impactsAisuch as injuries, bruises, and painAiwere experienced by . 2%). The biopsychosocial theory explains that multidimensional consequences, where physical injuries may exacerbate psychological distress due to pain and discomfort experienced by victims (Engel, 2. This is supported by recent studies indicating that physical injuries in victims of sexual violence often contribute to the emergence of posttraumatic stress and psychosocial impairments (Nguyen & Patel, 2. In the social domain, 53 . experiencing shame and low self-esteem as consequences of sexual violence. GoffmanAos theory of social stigma (Goffman, 2. explains how victims may feel disgraced and marginalized, interactions and emotional well-being. Such conditions often lead to social isolation and hinder victimsAo recovery Additionally, a combination of psychological, physical, and social impacts was experienced by 27 . 7%), emphasizing the complexity of sexual violence consequences and the need for holistic interventions. Furthermore, the spiritual aspect was also significantly affected, with 10 respondents . 4%) reporting spiritual Spiritual coping theory suggests that severe trauma may disrupt an individualAos sense of faith and spirituality, although spirituality can also serve as a source of strength for recovery (Koenig, 2. Negative spiritual impacts may lead to feelings of hopelessness and loss of meaning in life, indicating the importance of appropriate spiritual support during the rehabilitation According to the researcherAos demonstrate that protection and recovery efforts for victims must be carried out multidisciplinary approach. Intervention efforts should not focus solely on physical healing but also address mental, well-being. Collaborations involving healthcare providers, psychologists, social workers, religious leaders, and the community are crucial to accelerating the recovery process and preventing recurring trauma. CONCLUSIONS Sexual violence among adolescents is a serious issue that affects many lives, with a prevalence rate reaching 53. within this age group. The majority of victims are female, a phenomenon closely linked to social and cultural roots that reinforce gender inequality and the patriarchal structures that continue to dominate society. Among the various forms of violence, verbal harassment is the most common, as both perpetrators and victims often do not realize that certain words or comments already fall into the category of sexual harassment. The impacts are profound, particularly in the social domain. International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Science (IJNMS). Volume 9. Issue 3. December 2025 where victims frequently experience isolation that hinders their recovery process. REFERENCES