Relational Outcomes of Childhood Sexual Trauma in Female Survivors: A Longitudinal Study

• NCJ Number: 233198
• Journal: Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2006 Pages: 42-57
• Author(s): Belle Liang; Linda M. Williams; Jane A. Siegel
• Date Published: January 2006
• Length: 16 pages
• Grant Number(s): 90-CA-1406
• Sponsoring Agency: National Ctr on Child Abuse and Neglect
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This longitudinal study examined the effects of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) on the intimate and marital relationships of adult survivors from a sample composed primarily of African-American women. In addition, the authors explore the protective role of maternal support.

Abstract

Interview data were collected on 136 women with documented histories of CSA who indicate the quality and nature of their current marital relationships and other interpersonal connections. Results suggest that CSA survivors with poor maternal attachment are more likely to enter into marital or cohabiting relationships. However, more severe sexual trauma in childhood correlates with greater marital dissatisfaction. Good maternal attachment during childhood has a negative main effect on adult interpersonal problems and a buffering effect on the relationship between abuse and marital dissatisfaction. These data can help guide future research on the adult relational outcomes of female CSA survivors, especially among minority populations. (Published Abstract)