Exploring Online Sexual Abuse and Risky Sexual Behaviors: A Comparative Analysis of Adolescents with ADHD and Healthy Controls

Aim: This study investigates the relationship between online sexual abuse, risky sexual behaviors, and ADHD symptoms in adolescents. Method: We examined 118 adolescents with ADHD and 117 healthy controls using cross-sectional data collection. Measures included sociodemographic, an online sexual abuse scale, and the Conners Parent Rating Scale. Online sexual abuse was categorized into victimization, receiving/sending sexual content messages, and online sexual bullying. Data analysis used SPSS 28.0. Results: : ADHD and control groups matched in age/gender, but ADHD group had lower academic performance. Online sexual abuse was higher in ADHD (50%) than controls (31.6%). ADHD group showed significantly higher rates of sexual victimization (33.1% vs. 17.1%) and receiving sexual content messages (38.1% vs. 23.9%). Older ADHD children received more sexual content messages, girls had higher victimization rates, and poor academic performance correlated with more online sexual abuse. Comorbid conditions like Oppositional Defiant Disorder increased online sexual abuse risk. Adolescents with ADHD exhibiting online abuse scored higher on Conners Parent Rating Scale subscales. Discussion: This study reveals a heightened risk of online sexual abuse in adolescents with ADHD and identifies associated factors. Future research should delve deeper into these factors and their ties to ADHD.