Year: 2000
Type: article
Abstract: Narrow definitions of CSA which focus on repeated penetrative abuse yield prevalence rates of 2%\nand 4% for males and females respectively. Most abusers are male. About two thirds of all victims\ndevelop psychological symptoms and for a fifth these problems remain into adulthood. Children who\nhave been sexually abused show a range of conduct and emotional problems coupled with\noversexualized behaviour. Traumatic sexualization, stigmatization, betrayal and powerlessness are\nfour distinct yet related dynamics that account for the wide variety of symptoms shown by children\nwho have been sexually abused. The degree to which children develop the four traumagenic\ndynamics and associated behaviour problems following sexual abuse is determined by stresses\nassociated with the abuse itself and the balance of risk and protective factors within the child's family\nand social network. Case management requires the separation of the child and the abuser to prevent\nfurther abuse. A family therapy based multisystemic programme of therapeutic intervention should\nhelp the child process the trauma of the abuse and develop protective relationships with non-abusing\nparents and assertiveness skills to prevent further abuse. For the abuser therapy focuses on letting\ngo of denial and developing and abuse free lifestyle.
Author: Alan Carr
Institution: University College Dublin
Language: English
Topic: Child Abuse and Trauma
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2141616500