Secondary Symptoms of Sexual Abuse

Childhood and adolescent sexual abuse damages a developing human being. Listed below are some common secondary symptoms of abuse survivors. This list is not comprehensive, nor do all abuse survivors manifest these behaviors. However, many of these symptoms are present in older teens and adults who've experienced sexual abuse.

• Anger management problems
• Isolation and loneliness
• Depression
• Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, food hoarding, overeating, etc.)
• Body image problems
• Workaholic
• Substance abuse
• Sexual dysfunction or confusion
• Self-mutilation (cutting, burning, etc.)
• Sleep disorders
• Hypervigilance
• Anxiety and fear
• Dysfunctional relationships
• Spiritual void or disillusionment
• Difficulty concentrating
• Performance-based self-value
• Intimacy problems
• Trust issues
• Poor self-image
• Disconnection from self, others and God
• Stress-related physical problems
• Poor or impaired parenting skills

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Background Information

Emotional and Verbal Abuse
The wounds caused by abuse aren't always visible.

Recognizing Abuse Both Seen and Unseen
Verbal and physical abuse are far more prevalent in our society than you might expect.

Abuse and the Church's Role
If church-goers suspect abuse, here's an explanation why they should get involved and how to help the victim.

Charmers and Con Artists
The con artist can rob you of your time, energy and money, and the Charmer can rob you of your youth, your integrity and your self-esteem. Here is how to know if you live with a charmer or a con artist.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Why does Prince Charming often turn into a terrifying beast even before the honeymoon is over?

Questions and Answers

Why do abused women often stay, rather than just flee the situation?
Answer

My daughter and her boyfriend just laugh it off, but I am alarmed by the put-downs and insults they toss back and forth. Am I being too sensitive?
Answer

How should a wife deal with her husband's abusive tendencies?
Answer

Have you ever been concerned that exercising the concept of "tough love" in a marital crisis could potentially kill the marriage?
Answer

Review Frequently Asked Questions

Stories

Escaping my Abusive Relationship: A Shark Story
Used constructively, anger can be a powerful tool for protecting yourself from an abusive relationship.

Losing Myself
One abused woman found hope, healing and herself.

Victim
An abused man speaks out about the destruction of his marriage, and the healing he has found.

If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

Hope for Couples in Crisis
The key to dealing with marital strife lies in respect.

Where is God in the Midst of All My Troubles?
So many cry out to Him in times of need, but is God really listening? And, more important, does He care?

Related Topics

Life Pressures: Workaholism

Parenting Teens:  Drugs and Alcohol, Eating Disorders, Internet Concerns

Relationships:  Anger

Life Applications

Who Needs Counseling?
Counseling is sometimes perceived as a "last resort," rather than a valuable source of help.

Changed or Not Changed?
If you're in an abusive relationship, here are some signs indicating whether he has or has not changed his ways.

Helping a Domestic Violence Victim
If you know someone who might be a victim of domestic violence, here's how you can help.

How to Be an Anchor in the Storm
One of the reasons a battered woman is finally able to leave an abusive relationship is because she has someone who acts as her anchor in the storm. Here are some ideas that may help you help someone else.

How to Help an Abused Wife
When an abused woman reveals her life with you, you are just seeing the tip of the iceberg. Here how to help someone who is experiencing domestic violence.