NCJ Number
245192
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 22 Issue: 7 Dated: 2013 Pages: 822-841
Date Published
2013
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study examined perceptions of healing in female survivors of child sexual abuse.
Abstract
Child sexual abuse continues to occur for a significant number of children, often having deleterious consequences for survivors' physical and mental health. Research has thoroughly explored various consequences as a result of child sexual abuse, but scholars and practitioners know less about the healing processes from survivors' viewpoints. Using a constructivist grounded theory design, this study examined perceptions of healing in 10 female survivors of child sexual abuse. Results conclude with a theoretical model of healing, capturing the significance of supportive relationships, internal characteristics, turning points, and sources of active healing. Important sources of active healing include therapy, informal and formal education, compassion and empathy, blame attribution to abusers, and confronting abusers. Limitations and implications for research and practice are discussed. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.