Evaluating the frequency, co-occurrence, and psychosocial correlates of childhood multiple victimization

Abstract

The current study was designed to contribute to our growing understanding of childhood multiple victimization (i.e., exposure to more than one type of victimization), which has been found to be the reality among most victimized children. Caregivers of school-aged children (N = 213) completed an online and anonymous questionnaire that assessed the victimization experiences (lifetime) and psychosocial functioning of their child, as well as collecting information on a number of socio-demographic factors. Results provide support for the ubiquitous nature of childhood multiple victimization (86.9%), as well as the common cooccurrence of lifetime victimization experiences (Mexposure= 6.58). Findings highlight the important association between victimization exposure and psychosocial functioning (e.g., anxiety, depression, aggression, posttraumatic stress). The practical and theoretical implications for the prevention of childhood victimization are also discussed.