EFFECT OF INTRAFAMILIAL CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE CHARACTERISTICS ON THE SELF-IMAGE OF FEMALE VICTIMS, AGES 8-15
EFFECT OF INTRAFAMILIAL CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE CHARACTERISTICS ON THE SELF-IMAGE OF FEMALE VICTIMS, AGES 8-15
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Date
1990
Authors
Thomas, Nainan
Advisor
Flatter, Charles
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Abstract
This study was undertaken with two purposes: 1. to
investigate the differences in self-image between girls who
are victims of intrafamilial child sexual abuse and a control
group of non-abused girls; 2. to examine the within group
self-image differences of abused girls by age abuse began,
relationship of the offender to the victim, type of sexual
activity, use of violence, and mother support. Seventy one
girls, 37 abused and 34 non-abused, ages 8 -15, matched on
age, race, socioeconomic status and the single or two parent
status of the families were administered two standardized
measures, one measuring their self-image and another one
measuring their perception of mother support. An abuse case
information checklist completed by the abused girls'
caseworker provided information on the abuse characteristics.
Data were analyzed using ANOVAs and Correlational analysis.
Five subscales of the self-image measure, body image,
emotional tone, psychopathology, family relationships and
vocational educational goals were selected as the final outcome variables. Abused girls showed significantly poorer
body image and marginally poorer emotional tone and
psychopathology compared to non-abused girls. There were no
significant interactional effects for age and mother support;
however, among the abused girls, there was a significant
negative correlation of age with mother support and family
relationships, and this correlation was marginally different
from the controls. Within group analysis of self-image
differences of abused girls showed significantly better self-image
on family relationships when the offenders were male
relatives other than their biological fathers or stepfathers.
Surprisingly, girls who experienced vaginal/ anal penetration
showed significantly better self-image on family relationships
and body image and marginal differences on psychopathology and
emotional tone, compared to those who experienced fondling and
kissing. Abused girls who had higher mother support had better
self-image in family relationships and vocational educational
goals. No difference in self-image was found by age abuse
began, duration of abuse and use of violence. Findings, as
they relate to and differ from the previous studies are
discussed along with the implications of the findings for
theory, practice and research.