Sexual Abuse as a Cause of Agression

Sexual abuse is physical or psychological abuse or harm that involves sexual behaviour. Rape, indecent

assault and psychological abuse are some forms of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse can carry far in to the

victim's life, even to the point where they become sexual predators themselves, which is commonly

known as "the trickle down effect"

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is sexual activity with children. A wide range of psychological, Emotional,

physical and social effects has been attributed to child sexual abuse including anxiety ,depression, anger ,

hostility , aggression and sexual inappropriate behaviour. Frequently reported long term effects include

depression , self destructive behaviour , anxiety feeling of isolation , poor self esteem and etc. ( Impact of

child sexual abuse: A review of the research. Browne, Angela; Finkelhor, David Psychological Bulletin,

Vol 99(1), Jan 1986, 66-77.)

Aggression in children after sexual assault tends to be related to fear and anger. It can be a direct

communication that states "I am never going to be hurt again". Anger is a healthy response and a

necessary part of the recovery process from any trauma. It needs to be expressed in a safe and

constructive way with firm limits against hurting yourself or others. To do this, anger needs to be

acknowledged and recognised by the child and the adult. A child needs opportunities to discharge

theiranger. If this, for whatever reason, does not happen then anger is likely to come out through

aggression. This causes the child more problems as their aggression prevents other people seeing or

understanding the child's needs.

Aggression also stems from fear and a need to protect themselves from further hurt. This can be evident

in boys who may believe they were weak because they did not fight off the offender. Sometimes they can

make themselves feel more powerful by hurting other children or animals. Being aggressive can also

cause a child to punish themselves and confirm their low self esteem because they have no friends and are

always in trouble. (South Eastern CASA - centre against sexual assault )

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