NCJ Number
127395
Date Published
1991
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Incest has the potential for causing significant and long-term psychological problems for victims, particularly since the victimized child usually has a relationship with the perpetrator that also has positive aspects.
Abstract
In this case of two teenage girls sexually abused by their father, one girl appeared to be coping fairly well. She maintained honor grades in high school and continued to be involved in her usual activities. Her main symptoms were anxiety and panic attacks. The other girl was more symptomatic. Her grades had dropped, she fought with friends more frequently, and she had many depressive symptoms. She exhibited poor concentration, frequent fatigue, and significant behavioral problems. In general, children and adult incest survivors exhibit a wide range of psychological responses to the incest experience. Although it does not appear that the child's relationship to the perpetrator determines psychological outcome per se, many aspects of intrafamilial sexual abuse make the experience more difficult for the victim. As in other cases of child sexual abuse, child victims of incest and their families should be carefully evaluated to determine relevant dynamics, psychological symptoms, and family issues. Treatment should be tailored to address these specific needs. More empirical research is needed to identify what factors mediate psychological outcome and how treatment can most effectively optimize recovery for incest victims, perpetrators, and families. 12 references