Adult Survivors Of Sexual Abuse Research Articles

Correlates of Serious Suicidal Ideation and Attempts in Female Adult Sexual Assault Survivors

Relations between (a) serious suicidal ideation and attempts and (b) demographics, trauma history, assault characteristics, post-assault outcomes, and psychosocial variables were examined among female adult sexual assault survivors. Younger, minority, and bisexual survivors reported greater ideation. More traumas, drug use, and assault disclosure related to greater attempts, whereas perceived control over recovery was related to fewer attempts. Child sexual abuse and some assault characteristics predicted suicidal behavior. Depression was related to suicidal behavior until psychosocial variables were accounted for. Specifically, using substances to cope and self-blame predicted greater ideation, whereas receiving aid/information support was related to less ideation. Implications for research and treatment are discussed.

Revictimization as a Moderator of Psychosocial Risk Factors for Problem Drinking in Female Sexual Assault Survivors

Adult sexual assault (ASA) survivors report greater levels of problem drinking than do other women, and research suggests that their coping strategies, reactions from their social networks, and traumatic life events affect their problem drinking. The links between these factors and problem drinking may be moderated by whether survivors are revictimized, yet research has not examined this possibility. Therefore, the current study examined psychosocial factors, problem drinking, and revictimization in women ASA survivors. Community-dwelling urban women (n = 555) who had experienced an ASA completed a mail survey at Time 1 (T1) and were resurveyed 1 year later to examine how revictimization between survey waves moderated the effects of coping strategies, social reactions to assault disclosures, and traumatic life events on problem drinking at Time 2 (T2). The findings showed that recent revictimization that occurred between surveys was related to increased problem drinking at T2, after T1 problem drinking was controlled for. Moderated hierarchical multiple regressions showed that survivors who engaged in drinking to cope with distress, who received negative social reactions in response to recent assault disclosures, or who experienced additional traumatic events had increased T2 problem drinking only if they were revictimized since T1. Psychosocial factors relate to increases in problem drinking for sexually revictimized women but not for nonrevictimized women. Interventions to reduce problem drinking in women ASA survivors should target drinking to cope with assault-related symptomatology, informal social networks to improve their supportiveness, and safety issues through risk-reduction education and self-defense training for women when appropriate.

Revictimization as a Moderator of Psychosocial Risk Factors for Problem Drinking in Female Sexual Assault Survivors

Adult sexual assault (ASA) survivors report greater levels of problem drinking than do other women, and research suggests that their coping strategies, reactions from their social networks, and traumatic life events affect their problem drinking. The links between these factors and problem drinking may be moderated by whether survivors are revictimized, yet research has not examined this possibility. Therefore, the current study examined psychosocial factors, problem drinking, and revictimization in women ASA survivors. Community-dwelling urban women (n = 555) who had experienced an ASA completed a mail survey at Time 1 (T1) and were resurveyed 1 year later to examine how revictimization between survey waves moderated the effects of coping strategies, social reactions to assault disclosures, and traumatic life events on problem drinking at Time 2 (T2). The findings showed that recent revictimization that occurred between surveys was related to increased problem drinking at T2, after T1 problem drinking was controlled for. Moderated hierarchical multiple regressions showed that survivors who engaged in drinking to cope with distress, who received negative social reactions in response to recent assault disclosures, or who experienced additional traumatic events had increased T2 problem drinking only if they were revictimized since T1. Psychosocial factors relate to increases in problem drinking for sexually revictimized women but not for nonrevictimized women. Interventions to reduce problem drinking in women ASA survivors should target drinking to cope with assault-related symptomatology, informal social networks to improve their supportiveness, and safety issues through risk-reduction education and self-defense training for women when appropriate.

Recovering From Childhood Sexual Abuse: Is a “Storybook Ending” Possible?

This qualitative study examines the recovery stories of 27 adult sexual abuse survivors. Although recovery is highly individualized, participants' narratives indicated three critical elements: (1) disclosing the abuse; (2) making meaning of one's trauma; and (3) developing supportive relationships. Contrasting perspectives toward recovery and healing were revealed where as the former was viewed by participants as obtainable while the latter was not. Results from this study underscore the challenges of opening “space” within adult survivors' narratives for considering alterative meanings and thus alternative futures.

The Health Care Experiences of Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse

This systematic review analyzes empirically based medical literature relevant to the experiences of adult survivors of sexual abuse in the health care setting and what is known about providing sensitive care to this population. Effects of this trauma may impact the adult survivor's experience of care, health behaviors, and outcomes. The 10 articles reviewed in this study provide patient-based information on the experience of child sexual abuse and its impact on health and health care for patients. Suggestions are made for health care providers in two main areas: facilitation of communication and disclosure issues, and improving the experience of the health care encounter for survivors. Specific strategies are offered to assist in providing nonthreatening care encounters for adults who have been affected by childhood sexual trauma. Implications for research, practice, and policy for patients, health care providers, and social workers in the health care setting are discussed.

Listening to the Stories of Adults in Treatment who Were Sexually Abused as Children

This qualitative study examines the healing and recovery stories of 27 adult sexual abuse survivors. Three main themes emerged in their narratives: (1) creating a coherent life narrative, (2) the importance of turning points along the way, and (3) developing supportive connections. Results from this study underscore the importance of grounding mental health treatment and services in the words, style, content, and form of client stories. Narrative theory holds particular promise as a guiding model for understanding the stories of adults who experienced sexual abuse in childhood.

What factors predict women's disclosure of sexual assault to mental health professionals?

AbstractAlthough many sexual assault survivors seek support from mental health sources for adverse psychological symptoms due to sexual assault, many do not. A diverse sample of adult sexual assault survivors was surveyed about their sexual assault experiences, social reactions received when disclosing assault, attributions of blame, coping strategies, and psychological symptomatology. Statistical analyses were run to identify demographic, assault, and postassault factors differentiating women who disclosed from those who did not disclose sexual assault to mental health sources. Both demographic (race, sexual orientation, and age) and postassault factors (posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD] symptom severity, number of informal support sources told, receipt of tangible aid/information support) significantly predicted assault disclosure. Implications of the results are discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 35: 619–638, 2007.

Shame and adult sexual assault: a study with a group of female survivors recruited from an East London population

This study assessed feelings of shame in a group of 25 female survivors of adult sexual assault by using a series of self-rating scales. Women were recruited from a sexual health service and via media advertisement within East London. Findings demonstrated how shame was a noteworthy psychological response for this group of women (up to 75% of women reported feeling ashamed about themselves following sexual assault). A history of previous sexual victimisation, physical consequences, self-blame, concealing the assault and being assaulted by a known assailant were found to significantly influence the extent to which shame was reported. Results also indicated a significant relationship between shame and traumatic stress. The findings are consistent with previous studies that demonstrate a link between shame and sexual trauma. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

Factor structure of the Tonic Immobility Scale in female sexual assault survivors: An exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Tonic immobility (TI) is an involuntary component of the fear response that is characterized by freezing or immobility in situations involving extreme fear coupled with physical restraint. The present investigation evaluated the factor structure of the Tonic Immobility Scale (TIS; Forsyth, J. P., Marx, B., Fusé, T. M. K., Heidt, J., & Gallup, G. G., Jr. (2000). The Tonic Immobility Scale. Albany, NY: Authors)—a newly developed measure to assess components of TI in female sexual assault survivors. Study 1 ( N = 88) consisted of an Exploratory Factor Analysis of sexual assault survivors’ responses on the TIS, whereas Study 2 ( N = 191) involved a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) with a second independent sample of female sexual assault survivors. Findings from both studies suggest that the TIS is comprised of two independent factors: physical immobility and fear. Findings are discussed in terms of the theoretical and practical implications of the factor solution obtained, particularly with regard to evaluating TI in adult survivors of sexual assault.

Correlates of Women's Sexual Assault Disclosure to Informal and Formal Support Sources

Deciding which people to tell about sexual assault is an important and potentially consequential decision for sexual assault survivors. Women typically receive many different positive and negative reactions when they disclose sexual assault to social support sources. A diverse sample of adult sexual assault survivors in the Chicago area was surveyed about sexual assault experiences, social reactions received when disclosing assault to others, attributions of blame, coping strategies, and PTSD. Analyses were run to identify demographic, assault, and postassault factors differentiating women disclosing to informal support sources only from those disclosing to both informal and formal support sources. Women disclosing to both formal and informal support sources experienced more stereotypical assaults, had more PTSD symptoms, engaged in less behavioral self-blame, and received more negative social reactions than those disclosing to informal support sources only. Implications for future research and intervention are discussed.

Correlates of Women’s Sexual Assault Disclosure to Informal and Formal Support Sources

Deciding which people to tell about sexual assault is an important and potentially consequential decision for sexual assault survivors. Women typically receive many different positive and negative reactions when they disclose sexual assault to social support sources. A diverse sample of adult sexual assault survivors in the Chicago area was surveyed about sexual assault experiences, social reactions received when disclosing assault to others, attributions of blame, coping strategies, and PTSD. Analyses were run to identify demographic, assault, and postassault factors differentiating women disclosing to informal support sources only from those disclosing to both informal and formal support sources. Women disclosing to both formal and informal support sources experienced more stereotypical assaults, had more PTSD symptoms, engaged in less behavioral self-blame, and received more negative social reactions than those disclosing to informal support sources only. Implications for future research and intervention are discussed.

Existential Psychotherapy with Adult Survivors of Sexual Abuse

This article explores existential psychotherapy as an effective approach to working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Focused on being in the world, the existential approach addresses the very issue that torments many survivors: To be seen and exposed in the world invites not only danger but possible annihilation. The article touches on the broad range of symptoms or manifestations of childhood sexual abuse as they may surface in the adult’s life, specifically how it compromises one’s relations with oneself and others. It examines three critical elements that arise in the therapeutic relationship: trust and betrayal, protective internal structures, and dissociative patterns. The article then discusses existential therapy, emphasizing the unifying themes of presence, authenticity, and awareness, and referencing specific tools like awaring, focusing, and bracketing to explore how this approach helps clients engage in their processes and assists the therapist to skillfully manage transference and countertransference issues unique to this population.

A review of education/support groups for adult survivors of child sexual abuse: A qualitative anaiysis

The paper examines the views and experiences of participants in a series of Education/Support Groups for Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse over a three-year period. Twelve adult survivors participated in the study through the use of semi-structured interviews to establish whether the education, support and therapeutic aspects of the programme met their needs. The experiences of adult survivors in their disclosure of child sexual abuse and in accessing appropriate help were also examined with a view to the findings contributing to the further development of services. Overall participation in group work was viewed as a positive experience and the study highlighted a number of particular aspects of the programme regarded as beneficial for adult survivors. Concerns regarding disclosure of sexual abuse and experiences of admission to psychiatric hospital were also identified. As a result of the study a number of recommendations are made in respect of certain areas of the group work programme, service delivery and staff training. This paper aims to highlight the above and contribute its findings to the further development of professional practice and service delivery for adult survivors of sexual abuse. In an attempt to be sensitive in the use of language, we have adopted the term 'survivor' to describe those who have survived this most traumatic of experiences and yet possess great strength, despite the damage that has been inflicted.

Evaluation of a Rape Protocol; A Five Year Follow‐up with Nurse Managers

To evaluate the use and effectiveness of a protocol developed for emergency nurses and other medical personnel to use with survivors of sexual assault. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Protocol for the Treatment of Adult Sexual Assault Survivors was developed by a multi-disciplinary team in 1991-92 as a written guide to provide comprehensive, standardized, non-judgmental, and equitable treatment for survivors. In 1993, this 118-page manual was sent to all Ohio hospitals. In 1994, a follow-up video and training guide were also delivered. In 1997, Victims Rights Advocacy, a non-profit agency in Ohio, and the Center for Social Work Research at The University of Texas at Austin collaboratively conducted an evaluation of the utilization and effectiveness of this protocol at Ohio hospitals. Emergency departments at Ohio hospitals were asked to complete a mailed survey regarding their policies and procedures for treating sexual assault patients. Telephone calls were made to the hospitals that did not return a survey, and site visits were conducted at 20 hospitals in diverse areas of Ohio. Overall, respondents concurred that hospitals can benefit from using a standardized protocol, such as the ODH Protocol, for treating victims of sexual assault. Survey participants also indicated that training is needed on several topics, especially testifying in court, cultural awareness, and the needs of special populations, such as male, gay, lesbian, and bisexual survivors. In addition, findings indicate that survivors need more follow-up services, and written information about these services should be provided to them. Nurse practitioners can improve the treatment of sexual assault survivors in their communities through a variety of actions, such as gathering information about available protocols and training opportunities for personnel, and becoming familiar with resources that can help victims.

Factors influencing juror verdict in a case involving repressed memories of abuse

Mental health professionals acting as expert witnesses are expected to testify about the prevalence of sexual abuse, and also about the veracity of memory. In cases involving adult survivors of sexual abuse, this testimony is typically about repressed and false memory syndromes. Many professionals have noted concerns about the lack of definitive data to support either syndrome. This study examined the following variables: juror knowledge and experience with repressed and false memory syndromes, juror attitudes about sexual abuse and memory recovery techniques, and gender of juror on verdict. Results include effects for repressed memory knowledge/experience and gender. Gender differences were found regarding attitudes about abuse and memory. Concluding comments include practical and research implications of the study results.

Predicting the child-rearing practices of mothers sexually abused in childhood☆, ☆☆

Objective: Although empirical investigations have established a relationship between childhood sexual abuse and numerous long-term consequences, surprisingly little research has addressed the possible effects of childhood victimization on the later child-rearing practices of adult survivors. The present study examined hypothesized predictors of three parenting styles among adult survivors of sexual abuse as compared with adult children of alcoholic parents. Method: Forty-five clinical outpatients completed a questionnaire battery assessing experiences of childhood abuse, current economic and social resources, and parenting attitudes and practices. The child-rearing practices of participants were compared with those reported by a community sample of 717 mothers. Additional analyses examined the extent to which sexual abuse and its adult sequelae predicted the parenting behaviors reported by the present sample. Results: Both sexual abuse survivors and children of alcoholics reported significantly higher rates of permissive parenting practices than mothers in the community sample. Multiple regression analyses further revealed unique relationships between sexual abuse and parenting, over and above the variance explained by physical abuse, current socioeconomic status, and the experience of growing up in an alcoholic home. Mothers’ sexual abuse severity, social support satisfaction, and dysfunctional parenting attitudes moderated several of these relationships. Conclusions: The present findings suggest that sexual abuse and its adult sequelae may have negative consequences for the parenting practices of survivors, particularly for survivors’ ability to providetheir children with appropriate structure, consistent discipline, and clear behavioral expectations. Implications for the psychosocial development of survivors’ children are discussed.

The impact of Christian counselling on survivors of sexual abuse

The absence of research and growing involvement of Christians in all areas of counselling gave rise to this study which explores the impact of Christian counselling on adult survivors of sexual abuse. The sample of 44 women and 5 men from an inter-denominational, self-help network, completed a self-report questionnaire of perceived Christian and professional counselling experiences involving issues of trust, power, directive approach, use of prayer and Scripture, responsibility and outcome. Results show that Christian counselling is experienced as qualitatively different from professional counselling: Christian counsellors are perceived as significantly more directive and more powerful than professional counsellors and the overall outcome was perceived more negatively. A number of key factors were identified which influenced the negative experience of some Christian counselling. These included having experience of professional counselling, an emphasis on the use of prayer and Scripture, perceiving the counsellor to have different goals from the client, feeling blamed for continued distress and having prior experience of prayer ministry. Implications for counselling practice and training are discussed.

Evaluation of documentation practices of sexual assault nurse examiners

Evaluation of documentation practices of sexual assault nurse examiners

Trainee Forum: Working with adult survivors of sexual abuse

Trainee Forum: Working with adult survivors of sexual abuse

A Theory and Support Method for Adult Sexual Abuse Survivors Living in an Abusive World

ABSTRACT The basic question facing people abused in childhood is, “How can I live?” They therefore develop moral theories about the world and themselves and methods of survival. Support has to be based on their theories and methods of survival and directed towards guiding the reactivation of blocked learning processes and learning how to achieve their personal goals. These issues are discussed in the present article.