Childhood sexual abuse: From victim to survivor and beyond

Netti Jo Summer, Purdue University

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify and describe the similarities and differences in the constructions of the healing processes of adult women who were sexually abuse as children. This purpose was linked to answering two questions: (a) Are there ways to know what therapeutic approach may work better for a particular person? and (b) Is there a reason why some people are affected by CSA to a lesser degree than others? This study was qualitative and used constructivism and phenomenology as the theoretical frameworks. Data consisted of in-depth interview of 6 adult CSA survivors. Data were analyzed using grounded theory techniques. Using each survivor's self-constructed healing process, I developed a three dimensional model that structures and organizes the healing process. Based on the coding and re-coding process identified above, this model consists of the pivotal category (i.e., the healing process), and the three key categories (i.e., identity stage, dynamics of change, and resources). Identity stage is comprised of four subset categories (i.e., victims, survivors, revisors, and thrivors), dynamics of change consist of two subset categories (i.e., understanding and choosing) and resources include five subset categories (i.e., coping skills, relationships, religion and spirituality, support and therapy groups, and therapist). Therapists and CSA survivors, using three dimensional model of the healing process, may find that model can be used in tandem with a number of treatment models and that they can evaluate progress during the healing process. The participants' identity development throughout the healing process was also evident in their constructions of healing and in their definitions of victim, survivor, and healed. In addition to the identity stages of victim, survivor, and thrivor, I coined one new stage (i.e., revisor). The definitions for each stage in the healing process are included as a result of the data analysis. The use of the identity stages may help both the therapist and client evaluate the stage that is most salient at the moment and provide a focus for therapy. The establishment of identity stages that progress over the duration of the healing process can serve as a measure for growth and as goals for future growth and healing.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Pistole, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Developmental psychology|Clinical psychology

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