“I was glad to have been able to help”: Risks, benefits, and the ethics of engaging adolescent survivors in research on sexuality and sexual intimate partner violence

Understanding adolescent sexuality and experiences of sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) is crucial; however, research on these topics raises important ethical considerations, particularly regarding participants’ emotional well-being. Few studies have examined the potential risks and benefits of participating in such research from the perspective of youth themselves. This study examined distress and positive feelings associated with research participation among 100 adolescent girls who had experienced sexual IPV, after completing a 90-minute individual interview on the topic. Participants completed questionnaires before and after the interview and again one week later to assess their psychological state. Paired t -tests indicated a modest increase in the recall of difficult memories and the perceived need for support, but no significant change in sadness and depression-related affect. Although some participants experienced temporary discomfort, most expressed high satisfaction with their participation, emphasizing the importance of having their voices heard on issues of sexuality and IPV. Several days after the interview, most participants reported feeling well and identified concrete benefits, such as the opportunity to speak without judgment and to reflect on their relationships and needs. Overall, the findings suggest that while discussing sensitive topics may evoke emotional responses, participants generally reported positive feelings regarding their participation at the follow-up conducted several days after the interview. The experience was widely perceived as meaningful and empowering, highlighting the importance of ethically engaging young survivors in research when appropriate safeguards are in place.