Family and sexual violence rates against Australian children rise sharply as researchers warn of ‘manosphere’
A new study in JAMA Network Open reports a sharp increase in violence against Australian children, particularly sexual assault, between 2014 and 2024. Researchers suggest factors like income inequality and the influence of the 'manosphere' may be contributing to these trends.
Why it matters
The findings highlight a concerning public health trend and the potential societal impact of online extremist subcultures on youth safety.
A new study published in the medical journal JAMA Network Open found rates of violence against Australian children are rising. Photograph: Dean Lewins/AAP A new study published in the medical journal JAMA Network Open found rates of violence against Australian children are rising. Photograph: Dean Lewins/AAP Crime - Australia Family and sexual violence rates against Australian children rise sharply as researchers warn of ‘manosphere’ Study authors say increase cannot be attributed to any one factor and list income inequality and growing awareness as other likely reasons
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Prefer the Guardian on Google The sexual assault of Australian children has accelerated sharply since the pandemic, surprising researchers who expected rates to have fallen but instead found attacks on boys had risen 15.7%.
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