An exploration of the Sexual and relationship experiences of lesbian survivors of childhood sexual abuse

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the sexual relationships experienced by a non-clinical group of lesbian women survivors of male perpetrated child sexual abuse (CSA), where the abuse occurred between the ages of eight and 15 years. By adopting a phenomenological approach it was intended that these experiences would be explored through the eyes of the women participating in the study. It was further intended that the study would illuminate an underresearched area, thus offering some guidance to therapists and other professionals working therapeutically with lesbian survivors of CSA. Eight lesbian survivors participated in individual focused interviews, each lasting about one hour. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and subjected to stringent content analysis, with referral back to participants for clarification and verification in keeping with the phenomenological tradition. The study identified several issues which appear to be unique to lesbian survivors, namely woman-to-woman sexual assault, ‘negotiated sex’ and lack of sexual spontaneity in relationships where both women are survivors of CSA, and the concept of a double secret: CSA and lesbianism. Overall, however, the study demonstrated a sense of commonality of experience with those of heterosexual women. This in itself was found to be reassuring because it would appear that the therapeutic signposts and approaches commonly looked for and adopted, when working with heterosexual women survivors, are appropriate. Ultimately it is hoped that the study will help therapists and helpers to provide a quality service to lesbian survivors of CSA, based on evidence rather than supposition and stereotype.