NCJ Number
180010
Journal
Child Abuse & Neglect Volume: 23 Issue: 11 Dated: November 1999 Pages: 1141-1157
Date Published
1999
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This retrospective survey study explores the hypothesis that multiple maltreatment and loss experiences in early childhood would interfere with the formation of secure attachments, creating an increased vulnerability to childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and adult problems in self- and social functioning.
Abstract
Data were collected from 687 undergraduates on an urban commuter campus. The number of maltreatment and loss experiences in early childhood predicted greater CSA frequency in childhood and increased maltreatment in adulthood in the form of more frequent reports of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Childhood maltreatment and loss experiences also predicted poor adult self-functioning in the form of higher levels of depression and lower levels of self-esteem. Self-blame in response to CSA and maltreatment in adult relationships also predicted poorer adult self- and social functioning for individuals with CSA histories. Findings support both direct and mediational effects of childhood maltreatment and loss experiences on adult self- and social functioning and are consistent with predictions derived from attachment theory. Figures, tables, references