The alleged sexual assault of an 11-year-old girl in Badalona by a group of six youths has sparked a broader, troubling pattern of gender-based violence. Experts note that sexual assaults involving adolescents are not isolated incidents; they reflect a wider, growing phenomenon. In recent years, official records show a notable rise in such offenses, with a 56% increase between 2016 and 2021, climbing from 371 to 573 cases in that five-year span, according to Ministry of Interior data. Moreover, estimates suggest that about one in four of these attacks involved a minor as the perpetrator, highlighting a troubling trend that warrants extensive study and policy attention .
Delving into the dense and alarming landscape, researchers describe a pattern where young males use violence and intimidation, sometimes recording the assault. For instance, initial reports from Badalona suggest threats made with knives and possible video documentation of the attack. This mirrors a broader, recognizable script of coercive group behavior that officials are scrutinizing as they seek to understand and curb such acts .
‘La Manada’ as a reference
Experts point to a precedent in high-profile cases where organized groups commit multiple rapes. This reference frame is used to explain how some offenders coordinate, sometimes referring to their peers as a “pack” or “horde.” The phenomenon emerges in societies that have historically tolerated violence against women, complicating efforts to acknowledge and address it openly. Some accounts describe groups of attackers adopting a team-like mentality, with one member taking the lead and others following, which compounds the difficulty of prevention and accountability .
The expectation is that public complaints will rise as awareness grows, not merely because a safer environment exists but because victims feel more empowered to seek help. The normalization of violence against women has long hindered reporting, but experts argue that when multiple, unfamiliar aggressors act in concert, the barriers to reporting often lessen. Still, concerns remain about whether victims feel believed and supported when they come forward .
The role of online content
There is a clear link drawn by researchers between the surge in group aggression by minors and the accessibility of violent porn. While viewing such material does not automatically turn viewers into aggressors, the lack of comprehensive sex education and emotional development can intensify harmful attitudes. Analysts note that some young people build sexual expectations around highly aggressive and unequal depictions, which is troubling and not representative of healthy relationships. A notable portion of the most disturbing material depicts violence and domination, and experts emphasize the need for media literacy and age-appropriate education.
Observatories dedicated to sexual violence have documented numerous cases of group-based assaults, including content that depicts coercive sexual acts among several individuals. Investigations reveal a pattern where the most active participants try to establish dominance, sometimes accompanied by explicit staging. In some incidents, a portion of the attacks involved pornographic material as part of the coercive sequence, and a minority of victims reported disabilities or prior substance use. These details highlight broader risk factors that communities must address .
Sexual terror and prevention
Beyond the immediate harm, experts describe these acts as a form of sexual terror that restricts women’s freedom and autonomy. The consensus among researchers points to education and equality as essential remedies. Calls have been made for deeper, coordinated research and sustained action to address the underlying dynamics, including the exposure of minors to sexual violence and the social norms that perpetuate it. Agencies and foundations advocate for enhanced prevention programs, early intervention, and robust support networks for victims. It is estimated that a significant share of minors experience some form of sexual abuse before adulthood, underscoring the urgency of proactive measures and community engagement. Policy responses continue to evolve as new data emerge, stressing that timely, effective action is still needed .