Abstract

SUAREZ SOLA, M.L.  and  GONZALEZ DELGADO, F.J.. Importance of forensic medical exploration in the sexual aggression of minors. Cuad. med. forense [online]. 2003, n.31, pp.37-45. ISSN 1988-611X.

We have registered a total of 58 incidents of alleged sexual aggression and abuse between 1993 and 2001. They were categorized in three groups according to age (i.e., less than 6 years old, between 6 and 12 and between 13 and 18). We have carried out statistical studies on the samples and examined the results of genital and extra genital physical exploration as well as the mental state of the victim. The study shows that underage girls between 13 and 18 made the largest number of complaints to the police. The most significant finding was of hymeneal integrity in 76% of the cases, and normal extra genital and psychological exploration in 83% and 74% of the cases respectively. This shows the difficulty in proving the allegations in most of the cases due to the lack of physical evidence. It is, therefore, of paramount importance to perform a physical exploration and take medical samples as soon as possible. We would like to stress the therapeutic importance of a physical exploration under the right conditions, which provides psychological support to both the victim and the next of kin. It also helps to arrive at the proper diagnosis and to minimize any secondary effects that may occur.

Keywords : sexual violence; sexual abuse; underage; physical exploration; genital lesions.

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