A startling number of children are sexually abused at some point in their childhoods. It is estimated that one in five boys and an astonishing one in three girls experience sexual abuse as children. Add into the equation that most sexual abuse victims already know their abusers, and it is no wonder that children can develop trust and communication issues going into adulthood. Though counseling and therapy may be beneficial in alleviating the burden children bear as a result of sexual abuse, it often is not enough to thwart future physiological, emotional and relational problems as adults.
Physiological Problems
Depending upon the level of abuse incurred as a child, adults may experience physiological problems as a direct or indirect result of sexual violence. For example, girls who experience aggressive penile penetration may suffer irreversible tissue damage. Less violent circumstances may not lead to a direct physical issue, but could indirectly lead to self-abuse during adulthood. Statistically, children who suffer abuse as children are 2.5 times more likely to develop problems with alcohol or substance abuse as adults.
Emotional Consequences
Some adults express pain from sexual abuse through their emotions. Childhood molestation can lead to devalued feelings of self-worth, as well as a sense of safety or security. Often times, these types of feelings lead to depression and, when left untreated, can result in an attempt to take one’s own life. While most adults do not reach the point of contemplating suicide, very few escape all aspects of the emotional conundrum associated with sexual abuse.
Relational Issues
Many sexual abuse victims experience relational issues during adulthood. These issues most often arise with a spouse or sexual partner, but can also affect family and friend relationships. Abuse victims may find it a challenge to trust their partners, particularly if they were impacted by multiple abusers or someone close. These trust issues can lead to an inability to experience relational intimacy. Furthermore, victims who have self-esteem issues may have difficulty allowing themselves to be loved or accepted by another individual.
Getting Help
Overcoming adulthood issues that stem from sexual abuse during childhood is usually a tedious process. Often, adults suppress hostile and traumatic feelings from abuse, resulting in the physiological, emotional and relational issues listed above. In order to heal, adults must allow themselves to express suppressed outrage toward their abusers and grief of their seemingly lost innocence. It is only then that the path to recovery can begin. If you or someone you know has been physically abused, call the 24-hour Child Help USA National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD.
Allison Westbrook - Allison Westbrook is a professional freelance writer that is passionate about bringing quality and relevance to an audience of readers. ...
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