Intra-peer violence, socioeconomic and behavioral characteristics of sexual and gender diverse adolescents: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective:  to identify the socioeconomic and behavioral profile of adolescents who self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transvestite, transgender, and others, as well as their experiences of peer violence and its motivations. Method:  a cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted among 949 adolescents aged 14 to 19 years, using self-administered electronic questionnaires, which were analyzed using crude and relative frequencies and 95% confidence intervals. Results:  cisgender adolescents (81.0%), middle-class students (44.7%), Black or Brown students (57.4%), and public-school students (67.2%) predominated. The prevalence of bullying was 67.8%, with 13.0% motivated by sexual orientation, and cyberbullying was identified in 11.5%. Condom use was higher during the first sexual intercourse (50.7%) than during the last (40.3%). Current alcohol use was around 47.2%, cigarette use was 9.1%, and drug use was 15.1%. Conclusion:  it is concluded that the adolescents in this study face high rates of violence, social exclusion, and behavioral vulnerabilities, reinforcing the need for integrated strategies to promote inclusive and safe environments, as well as public policies aimed at equity and health for this population.