This information pertains mostly to female victims of adult male offenders. Incest, like rape, is an act of aggression in which the offender takes out his distress on his victim. Females with a history of family sexual abuse are often more vulnerable to sexual abuse by other males, repeated pregnancies, rape, and sexual exploitation. Incest victims may engage in acts of self-mutilation, attempt suicide, run away from home, or engage in various delinquent activities. Some of the issues confronting therapists of incest victims include guilt, low self-esteem, isolation, sexual problems, confusion about sexual orientation, difficulties in intimacy in non-sexual relationships, and difficulties in family relationships. Counselors need to confront their own sexual attitudes, power issues, and sexism. Group therapy, whether in led groups or self-help groups, is essential for any incest client. Counselors working with incest victims should not hesitate to ask for support from peers and supervisors in working through some of the issues and emotions they will experience. 7 references