Gender differences in childhood sexual abuse among undergraduates at the University of Port Harcourt

Introduction: Childhood sexual abuse is a global public health and human rights problem that calls for great concern and attention. It is associated with negative psychosocial outcomes and health-risk behaviors in adults. This study, which was carried out between December 2025 and March 2026, seeks to assess the gender differences in childhood sexual abuse and its long-term psychological effects among 400 undergraduates at the University of Port Harcourt
Methods: A semi-structured and self-administered questionnaire was used for this study, and a multistage sampling method was used to obtain data from respondents. Data obtained was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. Associations between categorical variables were tested using the Chi-square test of significance and Fisher’s exact test.

Results: Out of the 400 undergraduates, 105 (26.2%) had experienced CSA. A much greater proportion of the students who were sexually abused in childhood were females (67, 63.8%) than males (38, 36.2%). There was a significant difference between CSA and sexual orientation (p = 0.015), CSA and watching pornographic films and magazines (p = 0.006), and CSA and having had an STI in the past 12 months (0.037). In addition, there was a significant difference between gender and CSA (P = 0.030), and the upbringing of respondents and CSA (P = 0.028). Likewise, there was a significant difference between gender and excess alcohol intake (p = 0.000); cigarette smoking (p = 0.000); use of electronic vapor product (p = 0.000); and use of illicit drugs (p = 0.000). Furthermore, living status was significantly associated with cigarette smoking (p = 0.023) and illicit drug use (p = 0.027).
Conclusion: The prevalence of CSA in this study is 26.2%, confirming its presence among undergraduates. The findings from this study show that more undergraduates engage in various risky health behaviors; hence, health promotion activities are necessary in the University environment to educate students on how to live healthily.