Psychological Effects of Sexual Abuse
Dear Angie,
My ex-husband and I share joint custody of our teenage daughter, and she just revealed to me that (while spending the weekend at his house) his friend raped her. I can barely write the words, I’m so sick to my stomach. I immediately pressed charges and enrolled her in counseling, but I wonder what the long-term, psychological effects of this will be for her. Can you help?
Barbara – San Diego, California
Dear Barbara,
Please accept my sincerest sympathies for what you and your daughter are going through. I, too, am sick at the thought of it.
Counseling is essential, so it’s good that she’s receiving some. But you are correct in believing that there are long-term, psychological effects of sexual abuse, especially a crime as monstrous as rape. Rape Trauma Syndrome (RTS) is a disorder suffered (in some degree or another) by victims, and it includes the following symptoms:
Re-experiencing the Trauma
Rape victims have intrusive thoughts about what happened to them, and they cannot control these thoughts.
Withdrawal
The people, places and things the victim once enjoyed are ignored.
Avoidance
Unlike withdrawal, avoidance behavior means victims refuse to acknowledge any thoughts, feelings or cues in their lives. Their emotions are turned off, so to speak.
Hostile Behavior
Rather than deal with life in a logical manner, victims tend to experience rage and anger at the slightest provocation.
RTS is a disorder that has a domino effect on the victim’s life. Included in the above symptoms are a range of psychological reactions to the trauma of rape. A distorted body image, an inability to maintain romantic relationships, and sleeping disorders are just some of the anxieties experienced by victims.
You’ve already taken the first step by enrolling your daughter in counseling. Many rape victims keep the crime hidden, and as a result, they don’t receive the professional help that is vital to their mental wellbeing. Your daughter stands a great chance at leading a happy, healthy life.
In the meanwhile, you might consider receiving counseling for your own sake. And don’t feel guilty, as you could do nothing to prevent what happened to your daughter. All you can do is love her and try to move on. You both are in my thoughts and prayers.
Best regards,
Angie
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Angie Woodward is a Registered Nurse in Wyoming and is the founder and owner/director of Trinity Teen Solutions, Inc. TTS is a licensed Christian Residential Treatment center for troubled teen girls, young adult women, and their families. Call 307-645-3384 for a free consultation
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