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Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse occurs when one person, typically someone who has control by means of age, money, or position, forces an unwanted sexual act(s) upon another. This includes rape, spousal abuse, at least some forms of sexual harassment, child molestation, and incest.

Sexual abuse may be a triggering incident for the development of post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. It has been implicated in the development of many other mental health disorders, including Borderline Personality Disorder, Bulimia, Major Depression, Panic Disorder, and Dissociative Disorder. It is often considered not just an immoral but also a criminal act for which prison sentences may apply. Mental health professionals are generally required by law to report child abuse to state authorities.

Children who are sexually abused may in adulthood become especially prone to impaired marriages and social relationships, poor occupational functioning, depression, nightmares, sexual dysfunction, academic impairment, panic attacks, insomnia, body image disturbances, and rage.

This is another area of mental health concern that requires specialized therapeutic intervention before sexual abuse victims can more easily go forward with their lives.