U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

NCJRS Virtual Library

The Virtual Library houses over 235,000 criminal justice resources, including all known OJP works.
Click here to search the NCJRS Virtual Library

Impact of Child Sexual Abuse - A Review of the Research

NCJ Number
105706
Journal
Psychological Bulletin Volume: 99 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1986) Pages: 66-77
Author(s)
A Browne; D Finkclhor
Date Published
1986
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article reviews studies that have tried to confirm empirically the effects of child sexual abuse cited in the clinical literature.
Abstract
In regard to initial effects, empirical studies have indicated reactions -- in at least some portion of the victim population -- of fear, anxiety, depression, anger and hostility, aggression, and sexually inappropriate behavior. Frequently reported long-term effects include depression and self-destructive behavior, anxiety, feelings of isolation and stigma, poor self-esteem, difficulty in trusting others, a tendency toward revictimization, substance abuse, and sexual maladjustment. The kinds of abuse that appear to be most damaging, according to the empirical studies, are experiences involving father figures, genital contact, and force. The controversy over the impact of child sexual abuse is discussed, and recommendations for future research efforts are suggested. (Publisher abstract)

Downloads

No download available