Distressing sexual difficulties and sexual victimization in emerging Croatian adults: results from a population-based study

The aim of this study was to explore the association between sexual victimization and sexual difficulties among emerging adults in Croatia. We also assessed gender differences in the prevalence of victimization, sexual difficulties, and associated distress. The survey data come from a population-based sample of 1210 participants aged 18–25. Overall, 20.3% of participants reported one or more sexual difficulties in the past 12 months that have lasted for at least a few months. More than a quarter of participants reported at least one experience of sexual victimization. The prevalence of lifetime sexual victimization was significantly higher among female participants (42.8%), compared to male participants (16.1%). In multivariable regression models, lifetime sexual victimization was associated with higher odds of reporting sexual difficulties. Interaction between gender and sexual victimization was not significant. The findings highlight the need for timely sexual health prevention and intervention programs in this population.