The Trauma Of Child Sexual Abuse

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Did you know that one out of every three girls and one of every eight boys will be sexualy abused by the age of eighteen ? Most of the time the victim knows their attacker. How do you feel knowing that eightyfive percent of the abuse takes place within a family member or close friend? Unwanted touching, being forced to have sex with others besides your partner, and videotaping or photographing sexual acts and posting it without your permission are just a few of the many different types of sexual abuse that have a negative impact on people. Even though, some people believe sexual abuse has no lasting negative impact on its victims, it does. Here are several reasons why; sexually abused victims develop self- destructive behaviors, mental health disorders, and sexually abused children poor school performance .
According to the website of the American Psychological Association, sexual abuse also known as molestation is defined as, unwanted sexual activity with perpetrators using force, making threats, or taking advantage of victims while not being able to give their consent.Sexually abused victims often develop self- destructive behaviors ranging from drug addictions, promiscuity, and self- inflicted injuries. Many sexually abused victims turn to alcohol as a self- medicating mechanism to escape or cope with the trauma of the abuse.
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People with anorexia are usually thin and underweight but those with bulimia are average weight or overweight. Some eating disorder researchers state that a high percentage of anorexic patients suffered from childhood sexual abuse. Others suggest that the sexual trauma creates a fear of growing up or it is a form of self-loathing. People with bulimia tend to eat more than usual to make them feel better transiently and to feel some sort of release to the painful memories or to give a temporary sense of control for a short period of

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