Impact and Effects of Child Sexual Abuse: Prevention and Treatment

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a serious crisis and widespread problem both nationally in India, and internationally in many parts of the world today. This chapter confirms the empirical effects, clearly shown in the negative impact of child sexual abuse on social, psychological, and sexual functioning later in life. It also has an impact on mental health, sexual health, and social functioning. In regard to the initial effects, empirical studies have indicated reactions—in at least some portion of the victim population—of fear, anxiety, depression, anger and hostility, aggression, and sexually inappropriate behavior. Frequently reported long-term effects include depression and self-destructive behavior, anxiety, feelings of isolation and stigma, post-traumatic effects, poor self-esteem, difficulty in trusting others, a tendency toward revictimization, substance abuse, and sexual maladjustment. The kinds of abuse that appear to be most damaging are genital contact, and force. The controversy over the impact of child sexual abuse is discussed, along with the consequences faced by abused children, further measures to cope with the impacts of sexual abuse, and the roles of society and family in supporting child sexual abuse survivors.