Treatment Considerations With Sexually Traumatized Adolescents

Childhood Sexual Abuse And Identity Development: The Role Of Attachment And Self-Esteeem

“…In this model, An important aspect of identity development in CSA survivors is finding ways to overcome the role of the victim, which may have defined their identity for long periods of time (Draucker & Martsolf, 2006). Often, when adolescents are confronted by the abuse, the individual will utilize an avoidant coping style in an attempt to escape reexperiencing the trauma (Goodyear- Brown, 2011). Unfortunately, this type of coping mechanism inhibits exploration of identity domains resulting in a diffused identity status.…”

“…Sexual abuse in these formative years can hinder the appropriate development of identity. Adolescence is marked by an increased ability to comprehend the meaning of the abuse and reprocessing traumas(Goodyear-Brown, 2011). This reprocessing is unique to adolescents as their cognitive processes allow for them to understand and apply meaning to the abuse.…”

“…This reprocessing is unique to adolescents as their cognitive processes allow for them to understand and apply meaning to the abuse. In fact, some children may not display symptoms of CSA, such as PTSD or depression, until the individual reaches adolescence(Dominguez, Nelke, & Perry, 2002) and attempts to make sense of the abuse in the context of their overall identity development(Goodyear-Brown, 2011). The reprocessing of CSA may increase vulnerability towards inappropriate identity formation.…”