Child Sexual Abuse from a Forensic Perspective: Socio-Demographic Profile of Cases Attending a One-Stop Crisis Centre in Bangladesh

Socio-Demographic Profile of Child Sexual Abuse Cases Attending a One-Stop Crisis Centre in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Child sexual abuse (CSA) constitutes a serious violation of children’s rights and represents a major public health and medico-legal concern. In forensic settings, patterns of victim age, relational proximity, and abuse location may provide indirect indicators of pedophilia-associated behavioral dynamics. 
Objective: To analyze socio-demographic and forensic characteristics of CSA victims presenting to a One-Stop Crisis Centre (OCC) in MAG Osmani Medical College, Sylhet and to interpret observed patterns within established pedophilia-associated forensic literature. 
Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study of 76 CSA cases presenting to a tertiary hospital-based OCC was conducted. Variables included age distribution, perpetrator relationship, and incident location. 
Results: Prepubescent victims constituted 55.26% of cases. Most perpetrators were known to victims, including acquaintances (28.96%), family members (15.78%), relatives (14.47%), teachers (10.53%), and neighbors (11.85%). Incidents predominantly occurred in private residences. 
Conclusion: Observed abuse dynamics align with patterns described in pedophilia-associated forensic literature. Strengthened surveillance, safeguarding, and national data systems are essential for effective prevention and child protection.

KYAMC Journal Vol. 16, No. 04, January 2026: 213-216.