Prevalence of childhood exposure to domestic violence in 10 low- and middle-income countries: Analysis of Violence Against Children and Youth Survey data.

BACKGROUND

Childhood exposure to domestic violence and abuse (DVA) is associated with lasting impacts on child development, mental health, and future violence risk. However, global estimates are outdated, based largely on high-income countries, and often use inconsistent measures. This study provides updated prevalence estimates from 10 LMICs, using a standardized indicator of exposure.

OBJECTIVE

To generate updated, cross-national prevalence estimates of childhood exposure to DVA in LMICs using a consistent measurement approach.

PARTICIPANTS AND

SETTING

Nationally representative data were drawn from 10 Violence Against Children and Youth Surveys, conducted between 2013 and 2019 across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. Respondents aged 13-24 were asked retrospectively about witnessing or hearing physical violence between caregivers before age 18.

METHODS

Weighted prevalence estimates were calculated by sex and country based on responses to a standardized item. Country-specific population data were used to estimate the number of exposed individuals.

RESULTS

Prevalence ranged from 11.80 % to 30.68 %. In most countries, female respondents reported a higher prevalence of exposure than males. Across the 10 countries, an estimated 19.84 million adolescents and young adults were exposed to DVA before age 18. These figures represent 7.21 % to 14.91 % of UNICEF's 2006 global estimate, despite being derived from only 10 countries and a narrow definition of exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood exposure to DVA remains widespread and under-recognized in LMICs, and global estimates substantially understate the scale of the issue. Improved surveillance using standardized, cross-culturally appropriate indicators is urgently needed to inform prevention, policy, and child protection efforts.