NCJ Number
103033
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 1 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1986) Pages: 326-334
Date Published
1986
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This retrospective study examined the teenage behaviors of women in a nonclinical sample who had been sexually abused as children and compared them with those of a control group of nonabused women.
Abstract
A questionnaire examining childhood history of sexual abuse and later behaviors was administered to a sample of 278 undergraduate women ranging in age from 17 to 40 (average age, 19.8 years). Results indicate that subjects with a history of sexual abuse were more likely than their nonabused peers to report delinquent teenage behaviors in four categories: school problems, conflict with authority, early sexual behavior, and eating problems. The functional aspect of such behaviors in abuse victims is explored, both in terms of escape from jeopardy and as a cry for help. It is suggested that problem behaviors in adolescents be considered potential evidence of ongoing or previous abuse. 1 note and 26 references. (Author abstract modified)