Guild Cottage 2.71

The long-term impact of untreated child sexual abuse is immense. Abuse sets in motion a pattern that most sufferers, without treatment, cannot break.

Children that are sexually abused are likely to underachieve at school, drop out early and never reach their potential. As young adults they are likely to suffer immense frustration being in jobs that are below their ability. For this reason it is likely they will change jobs frequently, thus experiencing no advancement or security of tenure. They often have multiple failed relationships, may have children when they are just teenagers and may end up in abusive marriages.

The perpetual situation takes a toll on the individual’s mental health, thus depression is common and in many cases may result in suicide. Substance abuse is often a way to attempt to cope with the trauma. There may be more psychosomatic illnesses, poor self-image, poor self-esteem, low levels of trust and poorly controlled rage. Recent research indicates a strong correlation between early severe abuse and Dissociative Identity Disorder and dissociation. These outcomes, considering the very high incidence of child sexual abuse in this country, do not auger well for our future if left untreated and unaddressed