Long-term effects of childhood sexual exploitation

Abstract

In this article two conceptual frameworks for understanding the effects of childhood sexual exploitation are presented: the traumagenic dynamics model and the model of information processing. Various research studies of the long-term effects of this problem are reviewed and summarized. Results of these studies show that survivors of childhood sexual exploitation experience a variety of long-term effects, including low self-esteem, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, suicidal attempts, and drug and alcohol abuse. Implications for nursing practice and research are suggested.