Proximate effects of sexual abuse in childhood: a report on 28 children

Abstract

Of 28 sexually abused children (22 girls and 6 boys) aged 2 1/2 to 15 1/2 yr, those suffering moderate to extreme emotional disturbance were female, unsupported by a close adult, molested by their father and by more than one male relative, genitally molested and molested from an early age and over a long period. Twelve children were referred for psychiatric evaluation due to sexual abuse without apparent symptoms and 5 solely due to symptoms, with sexual abuse unknown. Child mental health professionals should improve their skills for identifying sexually abused children and help parents to be supportive of such children.