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Stockman D, Van Parys H, Uzieblo K, Littleton H, Keygnaert I, Lemmens G, Verhofstadt L. Coping with sexual violence as a post-assault formed couple: A dyadic phenomenological interview analysis. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2024:1-24. [PMID: 38962932 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2024.2374245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Increasing evidence shows that survivors of sexual violence frequently experience relationship difficulties following their victimization. Little is known regarding how couples which formed post-assault cope with the impact of the prior assault. Hence, the aim of the current study was to gain insight into post-assault formed couples' experiences in coping with the impact of sexual violence. To this end, an interview study was conducted with five female survivors and their male partners who began their romantic relationship post-assault. A dyadic phenomenological interview analysis revealed that sexual victimization is a dyadic stressor but is not always considered as such by the couple. In addition, disclosure is described as a potential bonding experience. Flexibility and creativity from both partners are required as they adapt to the post-assault impact. In addition, meaningful communication and considering the perspective of one's partner seemed to be key to dyadically cope successfully. The current study also identified challenges couples had to manage, including caregiver burden and role confusion. Results suggest that interventions supporting couples in their continuous efforts toward mutual understanding can foster trust and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar Stockman
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Expertise Network People and Society, Artevelde University College of Applied Sciences, Ghent, Belgium
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences Campus Kulak, Catholic University Leuven, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Hanna Van Parys
- Department of Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kasia Uzieblo
- Department of Criminology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Helpline 1712, Centre for General Well-being, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Heather Littleton
- Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, USA
| | - Ines Keygnaert
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Women's clinic, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gilbert Lemmens
- Department of Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department Head and Skin - Psychiatry, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lesley Verhofstadt
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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2
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Lucea MB, Ramirez A, Martino N. Barriers to Seeking Healthcare Services After Sexual Assault: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF FORENSIC NURSING 2024:01263942-990000000-00093. [PMID: 38912876 DOI: 10.1097/jfn.0000000000000493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual violence by an intimate partner or by a stranger remains highly prevalent in the United States. Yet, the use of post-sexual-assault health care is still underutilized. Persons in vulnerable populations such as immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and Black women may experience additional barriers to care. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the extant research in this area, the methodologies used, and whether specific barriers exist for seeking sexual assault services. We sought to understand if barriers differed for vulnerable populations. INCLUSION CRITERIA Peer-reviewed literature published before September 2023, written in English, conducted in the United States, and that included survivors of sexual violence and explored barriers to seeking care postassault (i.e., sexual assault nurse examiners) were included in the review. METHODS Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews protocols were followed. PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and PTSDpubs databases were used to identify literature that met the inclusion criteria, from which we selected 14 publications. RESULTS Much of the literature employed qualitative or mixed methods designs. Several studies focused on underserved minority groups, including immigrant women, Black women, and homeless youth. Common barriers existed on the intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, community, and societal levels. CONCLUSION The literature provided substantive context for the multilevel barriers, all contributing to survivors remaining silent rather than seeking much-needed help. Although there is a need for additional research on barriers to sexual assault services specifically, the extant research supports strengthening multilevel, alternative approaches to deliver much-needed services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marguerite B Lucea
- Author Affiliations:Department of Nursing, College of Health Professions, Towson University
| | - Andrea Ramirez
- Department of Forensic Science, Fischer College of Math and Sciences, Towson University
| | - Natalie Martino
- Department of Audiology, College of Health Professions, Towson University
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3
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Brockdorf AN, Bogen KW, DiLillo D. Reclaiming Pleasure: Does Satisfying Consensual Sexual Activity Predict Next-Day Positive Affect Among Women with a History of Sexual Assault? JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38767956 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2024.2354430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Substantial research documents the psychosocial benefits of sexual activity, including heightened positive affect and lowered negative affect following sexual encounters. However, it is important to examine whether affective benefits of consensual sexual activity are present among individuals who have also experienced non-consensual sexual activity (i.e. sexual assault), given that sexual assault may have harmful consequences for sexual functioning and pleasure during consensual encounters. This study tested consensual sexual activity and satisfaction as predictors of next-day positive and negative affect among 82 women sexual assault survivors. Participants completed ecological momentary assessment measures for three weeks, including measures of past-day dyadic (i.e. partnered) sexual activity and satisfaction in the morning and current affect in the afternoon. As hypothesized, dyadic sexual activity and greater than usual sexual satisfaction predicted increased next-day positive affect after controlling for past-day positive affect. In contrast, and partially supporting hypotheses, sexual satisfaction, but not activity alone, predicted lowered next-day negative affect after controlling for past-day negative affect. At the between person level, greater sexual satisfaction (but not overall frequency of dyadic sexual activity) was associated with greater positive and lower negative affect on average after controlling for several covariates. Findings indicate that satisfying dyadic sexual encounters lead to relatively long-lasting positive affect changes in women who have experienced sexual assault.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David DiLillo
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
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4
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Higginbottom B. The Nuances of Intimacy: Asexual Perspectives and Experiences with Dating and Relationships. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:1899-1914. [PMID: 38539031 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02846-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Asexuality studies are an emerging field in North America and Europe which lack large-scale, qualitative studies. Much existing research focuses on defining and categorizing asexuality, with researchers calling for more focus on the romantic and sexual relationships of asexual people. Drawing from an online survey with 349 participants, this paper describes the perceptions and experiences that asexual people have with dating and relationships. Participants answered 16 open-ended and 9 close-ended questions. After rounds of coding, three themes were selected for examination. These were dating, romantic and/or sexual relationships, and platonic relationships. These results showcase the challenges asexuals face with dating while also demonstrating how asexual people actively dismantle understandings of romantic, sexual, and platonic relationships through their own experiences and perspectives. Overall, this study provides greater legitimacy to the fluidity of asexuality and asexual relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Higginbottom
- Department of Sociology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, Canada.
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5
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Brown MJ, James T, Kaur A, Addo PNO, Nkwonta CA, Hansen NB, Onwuegbuzie AJ. Childhood sexual abuse and antiretroviral therapy adherence among older adults living with HIV: a mixed methods study. AIDS Care 2024; 36:17-25. [PMID: 37666211 PMCID: PMC10841262 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2254036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Findings on the association between childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence have been varied, with some studies showing a relationship, or a lack thereof. However, to our knowledge, no study has examined this association among older adults living with HIV (OALH). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the association between CSA and ART adherence among OALH using a mixed methods approach. This study, which involved a concurrent design, had two phases. The first phase comprised in-depth, semi-structured interviews of 24 adults aged 50 and older living with HIV in South Carolina. The second phase included data from 91 OALH. Thematic analysis and multivariable regression models, adjusting for age, gender, race, and income, were used to determine the association between CSA and ART adherence. The main theme emerging from the qualitative data was that CSA was not linked with ART adherence. However, contrastingly, quantitative analyses revealed a negative statistically significant association between CSA and ART adherence (adjusted β: -3.35; 95% CI: -5.37, -1.34). This difference in findings could be due to the hidden impact of trauma and/or the use of different study populations. Future research should assess mediating pathways between CSA and ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique J. Brown
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
- Rural and Minority Health Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
- Office for the Study on Aging, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Titilayo James
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Amandeep Kaur
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Prince Nii Ossah Addo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | | | - Nathan B. Hansen
- Health Promotion and Behavior, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie
- Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England
- Faculty of Education, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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6
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Fenlon EE, Pinciotti CM, Jones AC, Rippey CS, Wild H, Hubert TJJ, Tipsword JM, Badour CL, Adams TG. Assessment of Comorbid Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Assessment 2024; 31:126-144. [PMID: 37904505 DOI: 10.1177/10731911231208403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are commonly comorbid and share prominent features (e.g., intrusions, safety behaviors, and avoidance). Excellent self-report and clinician-administered assessments exist for OCD and PTSD individually, but few assess both disorders, and even fewer provide instruction on differential diagnosis or detection of comorbid OCD and PTSD. To address this gap in the literature, the current paper aims to (1) highlight diagnostic and functional similarities and differences between OCD and PTSD to inform differential diagnosis, (2) outline assessment recommendations for individuals with suspected comorbid OCD and PTSD, OCD with a significant trauma history or posttraumatic symptoms, or PTSD with significant obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and (3) explore future directions to evaluate and improve methods for assessing co-occurring OCD and PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alyssa C Jones
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System, Charleston, SC, USA
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Thomas G Adams
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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7
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Hedén L, Jonsson LS, Fredlund C. The Connection Between Sex as Self-Injury and Sexual Violence. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:3531-3540. [PMID: 37640887 PMCID: PMC10703980 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02669-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a suggested diagnosis recognized by DSM-5 as in need of further research. Recent studies conclude that sex as self-injury (SASI) and NSSI share similar functions, such as being used as emotional regulation. SASI has been associated with earlier sexual abuse, but the understanding of the association between sexual violence and SASI is still limited. The aim of this study was to further investigate the connection between sexual violence and the experience of SASI. How could SASI be related to sexual violence? The study used a qualitative design and was based on an anonymous questionnaire published on the websites of Swedish NGOs, providing help and support to women and youths, such as those in women's shelters. In total, 139 informants with a mean age of 27.9 years (range 15-64 years) were included in the study. Three main themes were found: (1) Normalization of sexual violence and a shift in boundaries could be seen as consequences of earlier experiences of sexual violence leading to SASI; (2) SASI could escalate into sexual violence through increased need of emotional regulation, increased risk-taking, and risk of victimization; (3) SASI could be used to regain control of re-experiences, the body, sexuality, and shame after sexual abuse. In conclusion, a complex connection was identified whereby SASI could escalate into sexual violence, and earlier experiences of sexual violence could lead to SASI in a vicious loop. Hence, SASI should be seen as a risk factor for further victimization and sexual abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludwig Hedén
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Linda S Jonsson
- Department of Social Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Fredlund
- Department of Psychiatry in Linköping, and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, SE-581 83, Linköping, Sweden.
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8
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Mark KP, Vowels LM, Mullis L, Hoskins K. Women's strategies for navigating a healthy sex life post-sexual trauma. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291011. [PMID: 37672546 PMCID: PMC10482293 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual trauma is common. Consequences of sexual trauma can include deterioration of mental and physical health and it can also affect future romantic and sexual relationships. Previous studies have identified common healthy and destructive coping mechanisms to recover after experiencing sexual trauma, but few studies have investigated useful strategies to move into a healthy sexual relationship focused on resilience. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 41 women with a history of sexual trauma who were in a healthy sexual relationship at the time of participation. Participants provided strategies that helped them move beyond the sexually traumatic event(s) toward a healthy sexual relationship. Reflexive thematic analysis identified 5 effective and 6 ineffective strategies reported by the participants. Rich examples of resilience and empowerment were overarching in the effective strategies used for moving toward healthy sexual relationships. Women were also able to reflect on the strategies that were ineffective for them with kindness and understanding for their coping at that time, a normalizing theme for women working through sexual trauma. The results of this study will help therapists and researchers working with women who have experienced sexual trauma learn from their experiences in working beyond trauma toward a healthy sexual relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen P. Mark
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
- Institute for Sexual & Gender Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Laura M. Vowels
- Department of Social and Political Sciences, Family DevelOpment Lab (FADO), Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lindsey Mullis
- Human Development Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Katarina Hoskins
- Institute for Sexual & Gender Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
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9
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Bogen KW, Jones HR, Lorenz TK. Relational and Trait Factors Mediate the Associations between Women's Intoxication-Related Unwanted Sexual Experiences, Pleasure, and Desire. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:1175-1191. [PMID: 35262426 PMCID: PMC9458769 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2030661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Despite documented negative sexual health sequelae of unwanted sexual contact (USC), it is unclear why individuals who have experienced USC within the context of intoxication (intoxication-related USC) are at particular risk for poor sexual functioning. Intoxication-related USC may impact relational factors like relationship satisfaction, as trauma symptoms interfere with emotional closeness during sex. Additionally, although individual traits - such as sexual excitation and sensation seeking - affect the relationship between trauma and sexual functioning, it is unknown whether these factors differentially impact those who have experienced intoxication-related USC. Finally, because presence of a partner may evoke trauma-related symptoms during partnered (dyadic) sexual activity, mediators may differ across solitary versus dyadic sexual pleasure and desire. We tested relational and individual trait mediators of the association between intoxication-related USC and solitary and dyadic sexual pleasure and desire in a sample of heterosexual and sexual minority women. Trait factors consistently mediated the association between intoxication-related USC and both dyadic and solitary desire and pleasure, while relational factors such as emotional closeness were inconsistently related to sexual wellbeing. If replicated, these findings would suggest that trait factors may be useful targets for clinical sexual wellness interventions among sexuality-diverse women who have experienced intoxication-related USC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine W. Bogen
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Department of Psychology; 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Center for Brain, Biology, and Behavior; C89 East Stadium, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Harper R. Jones
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Department of Psychology; 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Center for Brain, Biology, and Behavior; C89 East Stadium, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Tierney K. Lorenz
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Department of Psychology; 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Center for Brain, Biology, and Behavior; C89 East Stadium, Lincoln, NE 68588
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10
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Ownership, Enjoyment, Arousal Troubles, and Robust Education: Pleasure in LGBTQ+ Alt-Sex Members’ Responses to Consent Violations. SEXES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/sexes3030032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Alt-sex practitioners are a diverse group with diverse unconventional sexual behaviors including consensual non-monogamy (CNM), kink, fetishism, and bondage/discipline dominance/submission, sadomasochism (BDSM). Perhaps because of their openness to non-normative sexuality, these communities often comprise a large proportion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, among others (LGBTQ+) individuals. LGBTQ+ individuals experience higher rates of sexual violence and consent violation than their cisgender, heterosexual peers both inside and outside of formalized alt-sex communities. Pleasure, including but not limited to sexual pleasure, is often a motivator for engaging in sexual and alt-sex activities. This study examines how consent violations influence pleasure among LGBTQ+ alt-sex members. Methods: We conducted an electronic one-time survey of LGBTQ+ alt-sex practitioners (N = 1354). In this study, we analyze open-ended responses for ways pleasure was described in response to questions about consent violations. We use thematic analyses in Dedoose online software. Results: Two subthemes emerged related to the violation itself, (a) pleasure as a motivator for violating consent and (b) pleasure in spite of consent violation. As the second theme that emerged, pleasure was a component of the aftereffects of the violation in two ways: (1) pleasure was reduced or inhibited by consent violations; (2) pleasure was a motivator for healing and advocacy. Conclusions: We discuss practical and research implications based on the complex relationships between violations and pleasure reported by participants.
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11
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Barbara G, Buggio L, Micci L, Spinelli G, Paiocchi C, Dridi D, Cetera GE, Facchin F, Donati A, Vercellini P, Kustermann A. Sexual violence in adult women and adolescents: a narrative review. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2022; 74:261-269. [PMID: 35147019 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.22.05071-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Sexual violence is a widespread phenomenon, as it has been estimated that about 35.6% of women have experienced some forms of sexual abuse, with variable prevalence estimates worldwide. Sexual violence has remarkable negative consequences on women's health and quality of life, with a specific harmful impact on women's psychological well-being and sexuality. In this narrative review, we provide an overview on the phenomenon of sexual violence against adult women and adolescents, discussing its associated multiple negative consequences with a specific focus on clinical and sexological aspects. ''Women centered care'' and a multidisciplinary approach appear of pivotal importance when working with sexual violence survivors. Woman should be engaged in all the clinical activities as equal partners in the decision-making process, and should be supported by multiple and different professional figures (i.e. gynecologists, psychologists, sexologists, forensic medical doctors, lawyers) working within the framework of a cooperative integrated model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giussy Barbara
- Gynecological Unit and SVSeD, Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy - .,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy -
| | - Laura Buggio
- Gynecological Unit and SVSeD, Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Laila Micci
- Gynecological Emergency Unit and SVSeD, Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Gaia Spinelli
- Gynecological Emergency Unit and SVSeD, Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Paiocchi
- Gynecological Emergency Unit and SVSeD, Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Dhouha Dridi
- Gynecological Unit and SVSeD, Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia E Cetera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Facchin
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Agnese Donati
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecological Unit and SVSeD, Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Kustermann
- Gynecological Emergency Unit and SVSeD, Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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O'Callaghan E, Lorenz K, Ullman SE, Kirkner A. A Dyadic Study of Impacts of Sexual Assault Disclosure on Survivors' Informal Support Relationships. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP5033-NP5059. [PMID: 30160636 PMCID: PMC6395538 DOI: 10.1177/0886260518795506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
After a sexual assault, victims often disclose their assault to an informal support provider (SP) to receive social support. Ample research exists on social reactions of informal SPs to disclosure and how those reactions affect the victim both positively and negatively, but little research exists on how the disclosure impacts a survivor's support relationships both in the short and in the long term. This qualitative interview study examined 45 ethnically diverse informal support dyads where women disclosed sexual assault to an informal SP (e.g., friend, family, significant other). Assault disclosure was examined to determine its impact on relationship quality of survivors and their SPs. Results revealed positive and negative effects on survivor-SP relationships of assault disclosure and social reactions. In almost all matched pairs (91%), the survivor, SP, or both remarked on how the relationship had changed following disclosure. Family member SPs spoke of survivors' risk-taking and poor relationship choices. Significant others spoke of the toll of supporting survivors who sometimes left their needs unmet and strained their relationships with survivors. Friend SPs often appraised how the survivor engaged in other types of relationships, but overall felt that their relationships had become stronger or closer as a result of the disclosure. Implications of this study include acknowledging that informal supporters, particularly significant others, can experience adverse effects after disclosure, and that help is needed not only for survivors but also for their informal support sources. Future research should continue to investigate both the short-term and longitudinal impacts of sexual assault disclosure on survivors' informal support relationships.
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Baumann M, Bigras N, Paradis A, Godbout N. It's Good to Have You: The Moderator Role of Relationship Satisfaction in the Link Between Child Sexual Abuse and Sexual Difficulties. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2020; 47:1-15. [PMID: 32706310 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2020.1797965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Research has revealed a significant prevalence of sexual problems in adulthood among child sexual abuse (CSA) survivors, yet many survivors do not report such difficulties. This study examined the moderator role of relationship satisfaction in the association between CSA and sexual difficulties in adulthood. Questionnaires assessing history of CSA, sexual difficulties, and relationship satisfaction were completed by 320 adults in intimate relationships. Analyses indicated that CSA survivors who were highly dissatisfied with their relationships reported more sexual difficulties than those who were satisfied with their relationships. Results highlight the importance of positive intimate relationships when working with CSA survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Noémie Bigras
- Department of Psychology, UQAM, Montréal, QC, Canada
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14
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Mark KP, Vowels LM. Sexual consent and sexual agency of women in healthy relationships following a history of sexual trauma. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2020.1769157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen P. Mark
- Department of Kinesiology & Health Promotion, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Laura M. Vowels
- Department of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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15
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Layh M, Rudolph K, Littleton H. Sexual Risk Behavior and Sexual Satisfaction among Rape Victims: Examination of Sexual Motives as a Mediator. J Trauma Dissociation 2020; 21:73-86. [PMID: 31610751 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2019.1675112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Rape survivors engage in more risky sexual behavior and report more sexual dissatisfaction and dysfunction than those without a rape history. However, little research has examined possible mechanisms to explain the relation between rape and sexual health outcomes. Therefore, the current study examined sexual motives as one mechanism to explain why survivors engage in more risk behavior and report lower sexual satisfaction. We hypothesized that rape survivors would be more likely to report engaging in sex for a variety of potentially maladaptive motives, including to reduce their negative affect, improve their self-esteem, and obtain approval or avoid censure from their peers and sexual partners. Engaging in sex for these reasons was then hypothesized to mediate the relation between rape history and sexual risk behavior as well as sexual satisfaction. These hypotheses were tested among 1,534 sexually active college women. Results supported that all four sexual motives mediated the relation between rape history and risky sexual behavior and sexual satisfaction. In both cases, the size of the standardized indirect effect was larger for the models including the two affect regulation motives as mediators, as compared to the models including peer and partner approval motives as mediators. Thus, survivors who endorse affect regulation motives for sex are more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior and more likely to report feeling dissatisfied with their sex lives. This suggests that sexual motives may be an important area to target for future sexual health research and intervention programs targeting survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlee Layh
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Kelly Rudolph
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Heather Littleton
- Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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