One in Four Adolescents in Dominican Republic Experienced Internet-Facilitated Sexual Abuse

A UNICEF study titled Disrupting Harm reveals that approximately 272,000 adolescents in the Dominican Republic—representing 23% of internet users aged 12-17—experienced sexual exploitation or abuse facilitated by technology within the past 12 months. This alarming data highlights the pervasive nature of online child sexual abuse in the region and underscores the urgent need for enhanced digital safety measures, parental oversight, and educational initiatives. The findings have significant implications for adolescent mental health, as victims often experience trauma-related psychological effects. Healthcare providers and mental health professionals must be prepared to identify and support affected youth, particularly through trauma-informed care approaches.