Citation

Fromuth ME, Burkhart BR. Women Ther. 1992; 12(3): 81-95.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J015V12N03_06

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Psychiatric hospitalization and child sexual abuse are linked not simply by the need for the former occasioned by the symptom sequelae of the latter, but, also, by powerful pathogenic processes. Specifically, stigmatization, betrayal, and powerlessness are central themes in both experiences. Because of these similarities, the survivor of child sexual abuse may experience a psychiatric hospitalization as a revictimization experience. In order to avoid or, at least, minimize harm, all involved with the hospitalization of the child abuse survivor need to be aware of these dynamics and be prepared to provide treatment articulated to the needs of the survivor.