Association between Identity Dimensions and History Sexual Abuse among Rwandan Adolescents: A Case-Control Study

Sexual abuse is significantly associated with disruptions in identity development, including heightened diffusion, foreclosure, and altered exploration processes. Adolescents with a history of sexual abuse exhibit a premature identity characterized by commitment without sufficient exploration. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to support identity development and address the psychological impacts of trauma in adolescents.