Contextualizing the effects of childhood sexual abuse on adult self- and social functioning: an attachment theory perspective

OBJECTIVE: This retrospective survey study explored the hypothesis that multiple maltreatment and loss experiences in early childhood would interfere with the formation of secure attachments, creating (1) an increased vulnerability to childhood sexual abuse (CSA), and (2) adult problems in self- and social functioning. METHOD: Data were collected from 687 undergraduates on an urban, commuter campus. They were analyzed by means of between group (individuals with and without CSA histories) and within group (individuals with CSA histories) path analytic models. RESULTS: The number of maltreatment and loss experiences encountered in early childhood predicted greater CSA frequency in childhood and increased maltreatment in adulthood in the form of more frequent reports of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Childhood maltreatment and loss experiences also predicted poor adult self-functioning in the form of higher levels of depression and lower levels of self-esteem. Self-blame in response to CSA and maltreatment in adult relationships also predicted poorer adult self- and social functioning for individuals with CSA histories. CONCLUSIONS: Findings support both direct and mediational effects of childhood maltreatment and loss experiences on adult self- and social functioning and are consistent with predictions derived from attachment theory.     

STAFF AND ELDERLY KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES TOWARD ELDERLY SEXUALITY

This study compared staff and elderly knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to sexual expression by elderly persons in a long‐term care setting. Volunteers (N = 194) responded agree or disagree to 159 items. Significant differences were observed between the staff and elderly responses on 36 items. Areas of greatest differences involved knowledge and attitudes about consensual sex and sexual abuse, issues related to family attitudes toward remarriage and sexual expression, and age‐related changes and health problems related to sexuality. Items related to masturbation received the greatest percentage of no response. The staff had significantly higher total scores as compared to the elderly reflecting more knowledge, positive attitudes, and support for more proactive responses toward elderly sexuality. Findings have major implications for staff training in long‐term care settings.