NCJ Number
155457
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Dated: (1995) Pages: 45-61
Date Published
1995
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Because the effects of sexual abuse on the accuracy of facial expression interpretation have not been explored, this study examined the role of different facial components in the interpretation of facial expressions in a sample of sexually abused and nonabused girls.
Abstract
The study sample included 29 sexually abused and 29 nonabused females who ranged in age from 5 to 9 years. These girls chose schematic faces which best represented various emotional scenarios. Findings indicated that the accuracy of facial expression interpretation differed between sexually abused and nonabused girls only when emotion portrayed was considered. A history of sexual abuse alone had no effect on overall accuracy but influenced performance on specific emotions, particularly at certain ages. Facial component had no effect on facial expression interpretation. Rather than exhibiting patterns of overall arrested development, sexually abused girls seemed to focus on selected emotions when interpreting facial expressions. The study results regarding emotion selectivity and heightened awareness of particular emotions may be useful in understanding the effects of sexual abuse and in treating sexual abuse victims. 16 references and 4 figures