The psychological tests covered essential areas of mental and emotional functioning. The primary diagnosis in all cases was post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which usually becomes chronic without skilled professional intervention. PTSD involves the reliving of the stressful event, a psychic numbing in response to the environment, and newly developed symptoms of distress. Although all child victims of molestation usually develop PTSD, additional disorders such as an adjustment reaction or a personality disorder may also be present. The methods of coercion and fear typically used by perpetrators contribute to the trauma. Treatment should address victims' feelings of hurt, betrayal, resentment, distrust, and ambivalence. It is important to respect victims' feelings and accept them as they are without demands for change, so they may begin to respect themselves. Debilitating fears can be diminished by continuing support and guidance while reworking the disturbing events. Analogies can be useful in helping victims realign their feelings. 9 references. For the complete text, see NCJ-111794.