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Sexual Dysfunction Among Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivors: The "Functional" Dysfunction?
1School of Social Work, Faculty of Social Welfare & Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy
|March 15, 2022
Summary
Child sexual abuse survivors may experience sexual dysfunction as a protective mechanism. This dysfunction can serve to avoid re-traumatization and regulate relationships, offering a sense of control.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Trauma Studies
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Child sexual abuse (CSA) is frequently linked to sexual dysfunction.
- Sexual dysfunction is often viewed as a negative outcome for CSA survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the functional aspects of sexual dysfunction in child sexual abuse survivors.
- To identify potential psychological benefits and protective functions of sexual dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- This paper presents a theoretical framework based on existing research.
- It proposes four main protective functions of sexual dysfunction.
Main Results:
- Sexual dysfunction may serve to avoid re-traumatization.
- It can regulate relationship closeness and provide a sense of power and control.
- It may also aid in restoring a positive self-identity.
Conclusions:
- Sexual dysfunction in CSA survivors can have protective psychological functions.
- Therapists should consider these functions within the trauma context before intervention.
- Understanding these roles is crucial for effective treatment planning.