Predictors of attrition from an expressive writing intervention for sexual abuse survivors

J Child Sex Abus. 2013;22(7):842-57. doi: 10.1080/10538712.2013.830670.

Abstract

This study examined predictors of attrition from a clinical trial examining the effects of an expressive writing intervention for sexual problems among female survivors of child sexual abuse. Participants were 124 women all reporting sexual difficulties, who were randomized to a trauma-focused condition (n = 45), an experimental sexual schema-focused condition (n = 37), or a control condition (n = 42). Thirty-five women (28%) dropped out before completing posttreatment assessments. Younger age, less education, and increased use of positive coping strategies were each independently associated with dropout. Results have implications for both researchers and clinicians working with this population, and it is hoped that these data can help bolster retention of those who are more likely to discontinue treatment.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adult
  • Adult Survivors of Child Abuse / psychology*
  • Child
  • Child Abuse, Sexual / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Dropouts / psychology*
  • Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / psychology
  • Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / therapy*
  • Writing*