# Depression and Anxiety Outcomes Among Young Adults Who Self-Reported Experiencing Commercial Sexual Exploitation in Adolescence

## TL;DR

Young adults who experienced commercial sexual exploitation in adolescence show higher rates of depression and anxiety, with family factors and demographics playing a role.

## Contribution

This study identifies family-level and demographic predictors of mental health outcomes in CSE survivors using a nationally representative dataset.

## Key findings

- Family receipt of public assistance during adolescence significantly predicted depression and anxiety symptoms in adulthood.
- Gender and race were significant predictors of anxiety symptoms and mental health diagnoses.
- 20% of participants had a depression diagnosis and 12% had an anxiety/panic disorder diagnosis by age 24–32.

## Abstract

The commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) of children is a distinct form of sexual trauma, resulting in immediate mental health issues. Few studies explore associations between family-level factors in adolescence and health outcomes in adulthood among this population. Utilizing a nationally representative dataset, we explored differences and associations between mental health outcomes and domains of the Family Health Development framework among respondents who self-reported CSE (N = 502; mean age = 15.03, SD = 1.34; 67% male; 50% white). We conducted ordinary least squares and binary logistic regressions using a hierarchical approach to analyze the CES-D depression scale, anxious personality scale, and self-reported diagnoses of depression and anxiety/panic disorder. At Wave IV, when participants were aged 24–32, 20% of participants reported ever having a diagnosis of depression, and 12% reported ever having an anxiety/panic disorder diagnosis. Family receipt of public assistance during adolescence significantly predicted depression and anxiety symptoms in adulthood, highlighting associations between family structure and mental health. Gender and race significantly predicted anxiety symptoms and having a diagnosis of depression and anxiety/panic disorder. Findings underscore the need for targeted training and comprehensive health screenings for providers to better understand and address the long-term mental health needs of CSE-impacted groups.