NPR

'Who Threatens You?' Researchers Asked Teen Girls Affected By Conflict

Concern usually focuses on soldiers and other armed personnel. But a survey of nearly 1,300 girls in sub-Saharan Africa revealed a different perspective.
A girl in a refugee camp in the Democratic Republic of Congo. / Uriel Sinai / Getty Images

Who poses the greatest risk to teenage girls whose lives are disrupted by conflict?

Many of them have fled their homes and are living in refugee camps and other temporary facilities. Others live surrounded by fighting. It's long been thought that soldiers and other armed personnel pose the biggest threat in terms of sexual and physical violence.

But a new survey offers a different perspective. And the reason for the revelations could be the technology used in the survey.

The girls

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min read
What Are Sperm Whales Saying? Researchers Find A Complex 'Alphabet'
Researchers say sperm whales have a complex communication system, an example of how new technology is opening up the mysterious world of animal language.
NPR2 min readWorld
Israeli Forces Take Control At Rafah Crossing; How A Border Patrol Agent Sees His Job
Israeli forces have taken control of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing into Egypt. A U.S. Border Patrol agent explains how he sees his agency's mission.
NPR5 min readAmerican Government
Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels Is Testifying Against Trump In New York Trial
Stephanie Clifford, also known as Stormy Daniels, has spent the last several years in legal battles with former President Trump. She has taken the stand to testify against him in a criminal trial.

Related Books & Audiobooks