Some Facts Psychologists Know About?

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Some Facts Psychologists Know About…

ADULT SURVIVORS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
Source: The University of Cincinnati
What is child sexual abuse?
Child sexual abuse is a sexual act imposed on a child who lacks emotional, maturational, physical and cognitive development. The crime of luring a child into sexual activities is sadly common because of the powerful and dominant position of the adult or older adolescent perpetrator. This is in sharp contrast to the child's age, dependency, lack of knowledge, and subordinate position. Authority, power, corruption of affection, and (sometimes) force enable the perpetrator to easily coerce the child into sexual compliance.

How common is sexual abuse?
25% of all adults have been sexually abused

Statistics suggest that as many as 1 in 4 children becomes a victim of sexual abuse by the time they reach 18 yrs of age

Up to 90% of sexual abuse of children is committed by someone the child knows

Approximately 10% of all victims reporting sexual abuse are boys, but probably more are abused

A study of imprisoned sexual abusers of children revealed that, on the average, they each had molested over 230 victims. Among other things, this indicates how very easy it is for adults to molest children.

What might I experience as a survivor of sexual abuse?
low self esteem

inability to trust others

exaggerated willingness to remain in dysfunctional or abusive relationships

sexual dysfunction

drug/alcohol abuse

eating disorders

distorted body image

flashbacks of the abuse

frequent nightmares

intruding thoughts

frozen or numbed emotions

depression

anxiety

self abuse and self-deprivation

difficulty experiencing pleasure

What can I do if I am a survivor of sexual abuse?
Read self help books:

The Courage to Heal by Bass and Davis: This is a book and companion workbook helping survivors identify and process feelings and thoughts related to the sexual abuse. There is also a book for the partners and loved ones of survivors. These books are helpful in empowering the survivor.


Talk to supportive others:

Find people who will be willing to listen to your thoughts and feelings related to the sexual abuse. The supportive other should be non-judgmental (not blaming you for the abuse, or telling you what to do or how to feel), able to listen to your feelings, honest, and willing to be there for you during the "rough times."


Begin therapy:

Therapy can be a safe and supportive environment in which to explore your feelings and thoughts with a non-judgmental, caring person. A therapist can help you deal with the psychological effects of sexual abuse such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and flashbacks.


Join a group of other survivors of sexual abuse:

In a group setting you have the opportunity to hear about the experiences of other survivors and share your experience with them. Support groups or therapy groups can be excellent places to talk about your feelings and experiences while receiving emotional support from others.
NOTE: It is advisable to enter a support group only after you have progressed sufficiently in individual therapy or are currently involved in individual therapy or group therapy.
Source: The University of Cincinnati Psychological Services Center, Evening Clinic, and the Division of Student Affairs and Human Resources
The University of Cincinnati Psychological Services Center, Evening Clinic, and the Division of Student Affairs and Human Resources provide this fact sheet as a service. This fact sheet is intended for individual use and cannot be replicated or otherwise published without our permission.


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