Effects of Sexual Abuse and Assault
Sexual abuse and sexual assault are two major causes of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among children and women, respectively. The impact of sexual abuse can be especially devastating for children, as it is often perpetrated by a family member or close family friend, and can occur over an extended period of time. Research indicates that approximately 10% of children under 18 have been victims of sexual abuse. The consequences of ongoing sexual abuse can manifest in various aspects of a person’s life, including sexual, medical, and psychological symptoms, with PTSD being one of the potential outcomes.
Sexual assault, on the other hand, refers to any non-consensual sexual activity involving one or more individuals. According to the National Center for PTSD, a study found that 94% of women exhibited trauma symptoms within two weeks of experiencing sexual assault. Remarkably, even after nine months, 30% of the women still reported symptoms of PTSD. It is alarming to note that one in every three women who go through rape will develop PTSD.
Effects of Physical Abuse on Mental Health
Physical abuse can have devastating effects on the mental health of both children and adults. Regardless of gender, anyone who endures ongoing physical abuse is at risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While child victims make up the majority of physical abuse cases, adults can also become victims in situations involving domestic violence or workplace aggression.
According to psychologist Susanne Babbel, Ph.D., M.F.T., in an article published in Psychology Today, individuals who were victims of child abuse often lack the necessary coping mechanisms to process the trauma. Consequently, they may carry the effects of the abuse into adulthood, which can manifest as various other mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, hypervigilance, substance abuse, sleep disturbances, and eating disorders. Moreover, these individuals are more likely to find themselves in abusive relationships and unintentionally repeat the cycle of abuse.