Briana S. Nelson

Group treatments for women sexually abused as children: a review of the literature and recommendations for future outcome research

OBJECTIVE Adults with a history of sexual abuse often suffer many long-term consequences. It is important that therapists be able to provide effective treatment to address the host of issues that are presented in therapy by adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). In order to provide the best possible treatment, therapists should know which treatments are most effective. METHOD This paper provides a critique of the outcome research of 13 studies (six uncontrolled and seven controlled) on the treatment of adults who suffered childhood sexual abuse and discusses specific methodological strategies that can enhance the quality of such research in the future. RESULTS Although many of the studies contain methodological limitations, the results generally indicate that group treatment helps reduce symptomatology in the short-term and at follow-up. CONCLUSION Although outcome research has not been published on specific individual or conjoint treatment approaches for adult survivors of CSA, several outcome studies have found group treatment to be effective in the recovery of female CSA survivors.

Further Understanding the Systemic Effects of Childhood Sexual Abuse: A Comparison of Two Groups of Clinical Couples.

ABSTRACT This study addressed the impact of traumatic experiences on dyadic relationships by comparing general stress and trauma symptoms and relationship impairment measures between two clinical groups: female childhood sexual abuse (CSA) survivors (n = 15) and their male partners, and a control group of couples who reported no CSA (n = 17). Both female CSA survivors and their partners reported higher symptoms of stress, suggesting support for the theory of secondary traumatic stress. Relationship impairment results did not support the hypothesis that CSA would negatively impact the dyadic functioning of couples. Clinical implications and recommendations for future research are provided.

Post-War Trauma and Reconciliation in Bosnia-Herzegovina: Observations, Experiences, and Implications for Marriage and Family Therapy.

The 1992-1995 war in Bosnia-Herzegovina caused much devastation in that region of the world. This article describes the themes and issues that emerged from information gained from interviews with Bosnian professionals through a project entitled “Trauma and Reconciliation in Bosnia-Herzegovina,” funded by the National Research Council. The current issues facing Bosnia include complex trauma-related and post-war issues, lack of coordination in professional services, limited outcome research and program evaluation, and the need for services for children and families. Recommendations and implications for marriage and family therapy are included. This project was funded through a grant from the National Research Council Young Investigators Program, National Academy of Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.

Clinical Decision-Making Strategies of Marriage and Family Therapists in the Treatment of Adult Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivors

The incidence of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) in the general population, as well as the greater prevalence of CSA survivors among those who enter therapy, mean that therapists are likely to treat sexual abuse survivors in their clinical work. A modified Delphi study was used to collect data to determine how American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Approved Supervisors make treatment decisions following client disclosures of CSA. Three rounds of data were collected. The results suggested that there are several issues to address in therapy regardless of treatment modality and disclosure type. Suggestions for treatment were provided depending on the disclosure scenario.