Recovery From Childhood Sexual Abuse Complicated by Violence

Although every incident of sexual abuse of a child is uniquely
personal, there are many commonalities. Some incidents are "simple"
molestation in which someone touches the child sexually or has him or
her touch the abuser. No matter how "simple" the molestation, the
results are a complexity of what are usually life-long issues. The
most devastating effects of sexual abuse are when violence is
involved.Violence-free sexual abuseWhen discussing sexual abuse
without violence, understand that all sexual abuse has a violent
effect upon the victim. They usually describe the effect of the
molestation in violent terms: childhood ripped away, soul shattered,
self-image destroyed. What I'm referring to is molestation without
hitting, punching or weapons. I also consider threats of bodily harm
to the child or family as violence.When there is molestation without
physical violence. The victim usually has an easier time working
through the issues than someone who was also beaten. The exception to
this is when the victim believes s/he allowed it to happen, enjoyed
the attention or the feelings, or willingly participated. In this
situation there is tremendous guilt, shame and self-blame. The child
believes s/he is responsible for what happened and the perpetrator
usually reinforces this misperception.When sexual abuse is
violentAnyone who has been violently assaulted is aware of the trauma
that occurs. When sexual abuse is included, the physical pain further
anchors the body memory of the event. The child may have been in fear
for his or her life. Violence can also include threats that harm or
death will come to loved ones. The child then feels s/he is
responsible for the safety of family members. This is a heavy
burden.Symptoms of molestation and incestWhether or not there was
violence, molestation has many long-term effects reaching into
adulthood. These include both physical and emotional symptoms. There
are numerous problems that can occur during physical intimacy
including difficulty being aroused, inappropriate relationships,
feelings of disgust and flashbacks during intimacy. Physical symptoms
can include insomnia, migraines, pelvic pain, hypochondria, lower back
pain and lung problems such as asthma. Psychological symptoms include
anxiety, depression, hyper-vigilance, self-mutilation, and various
personality disorders.It is crucial for those experiencing these
symptoms, even if they are not aware of the cause, to get some help.
Support groups specifically for survivors can assist in sorting
through the myriad emotions. If the individual isn't consciously aware
of the cause of the symptoms, a therapist will help identify the
source. Every person deserves to live a happy and healthy life.