Impact of Child Sexual Abuse on Victims

The damages caused by child sexual abuse last a long time without the proper healing. Dr. Phil explains the impact on victims:

• Damage to self-concept/self-esteem, feeling “dirty,” or like “damaged goods”
• Feelings of guilt, shame, despair and anger
• Belief that sexuality/physicality is “all I have to offer”
• High risk of promiscuity, hyper-sexuality, sexual identity problems or negative sexual encounters
• High risk of teen pregnancy
• High risk of aggressive and suicidal behavior
• High risk of substance abuse and other acting out or high-risk behavior
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Disrupted sleep patterns and nightmares
• Regression to more infantile behavior (bed-wetting, etc.)
• Problems with memory, cognition and attentiveness
• Change in appetite or eating behaviors
• Inability to trust others
• Controlling behaviors or involvement in exploitative relationships
• Powerlessness, vulnerability and avoidant responses, such as running away
• Tendency to withdraw from relationships and society
• A fear of intimacy or commitment
• Paranoia/hyper-vigilance/phobias
• Re-victimization
• Higher incidence of mental and emotional disorders, such as anxiety, depression or eating disorders

For more information, read: Child Sexual Abuse Warning Signs and Resources.

http://www.childluresprevention.com/
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