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
TELL DR. PHIL YOUR STORY: Life in crisis?
All content provided and shared on this platform (including any information provided by users) is intended only for informational, entertainment, and communication purposes on matters of public interest and concern and is not intended to replace or substitute for professional medical, financial, legal, or other advice. None of the content should be considered mental health or medical advice or an endorsement, representation or warranty that any particular treatment is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. If you have specific concerns or a situation in which you require professional or medical advice, you should consult with an appropriately trained and qualified specialist.
