Peer-reviewed article

Violence against minors. Analysis of the phenomenon based on forensic medical examinations performed at the Department of Forensic Medicine in Poznan in 2015-2020.

Bielecka A, Burchardt B, Dolińska-Kaczmarek K, Linke J, Nitschke K et al. · 1 May 2026

Abstract

Introduction Forensic medical opinions are central to classifying offences against health. Examinations determine whether violence resulted in bodily harm; in many cases, the victims are minors. Methods and results We analyzed 670 incidents of violence against minors in the Wielkopolska region (2015-2020) using anonymized forensic examinations commissioned by the police or requested by victims/legal guardians. Minors were defined as individuals aged <18 years. Descriptive statistics (mean, median, SD, IQR, range) and chi-square/Fisher tests were used; significance was set at p=0.05. Victims and perpetrators were predominantly male. Bruises were the most common injury, and the head was the most frequently affected region. More than half of incidents occurred in public spaces. Discussion An estimated one billion children worldwide experience violence each year; the true burden is likely higher because of underreporting. Many incidents never reach law enforcement, limiting available data. Although numerous social and preventive programs aim to reduce violence against children, its persistence indicates a need for broader, more comprehensive prevention. Conclusions Violence against minors remains a major public health and social concern. Large-scale prevention programs are needed, and training for healthcare and educational professionals is crucial because they are often the first to recognize abuse and initiate appropriate intervention.