Children's Narratives on the Experience of Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is estimated to affect 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys before the age of 18. Despite the prevalence of sexual abuse, little is known about CSA from the perspective of the child. To address the gap in the research literature, the present study investigated the perspectives of children through thematic analysis of trauma narratives, which were written by children as a therapeutic intervention. Analysis of narratives revealed one meta-theme, which was titled Fear and Safety. Three themes also emerged: (1) Memories of the Abuse, (2) The Disclosure and Subsequent Events, and (3) The Healing Journey. The themes are discussed, and ramifications for prevention efforts, treatment of child victims of sexual abuse, and counselor preparation are explored. Additionally, implications for counselors and community members are delineated, and recommendations for future research with child victims of sexual abuse are made. This book informs professional helpers on sexual abuse from the perspective of children. Further, for those who have experienced the pain of CSA firsthand, this text may be an encouragement that healing can and does occur.