The effects of childhood sexual abuse on adult females

Abstract

This study examined the effects of childhood sexual abuse on the emotional functioning of adult female survivors and the impact on their relationships with their spouse I partner and child I children. Literature reveals that sexual abuse has negative long-term effects on adult survivors, including psychological impairments. To study this phenomenon, a psycho-educational perspective was utilised. A clinical, judgmental sample of sixteen adult female survivors who attributed their current difficulties and problems to their childhood sexual experience was selected and an in-depth qualitative study was undertaken. The Emotions Profile Index Personality Test, a Questionnaire and an Interview were used to determine the present emotional functioning of the survivors and the impact on their relationships. The conclusions reached were that childhood sexual abuse had a detrimental effect on the emotional functioning of survivors and this impacted negatively on their relationships with their spouse I partner and child I children.