NCJ Number
111606
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1988) Pages: 90-101
Date Published
1988
Length
12 pages
Annotation
In response to the frequently expressed need of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse for support from significant others (family, friends, lovers), groups were offered for significant others of survivors.
Abstract
Three different group formats were offered: a drop-in group, an educative course, and a workshop. Issues of social isolation and the identification of affective and cognitive skills served to structure the group experiences. Group participants exhibited differing abilities to distinguish their own needs from those of their survivor-partners, particularly in their responses to major areas of conflict and concern common to these relationships such as being cared for, accommodation behaviors, secrecy, anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and anger and rage. In total, 31 men and women participated in these groups. The primary benefit of participation reported by significant others was a decrease in social isolation and a sense of relief in learning that others shared the doubts and difficulties in response to childhood sexual abuse and adult intimacy presented by the adult survivor in the relationship. Special issues that arose in the course of these groups centered on screening, confidentiality, and leadership roles. 13 references. (Author abstract modified)