Depression, Self-Esteem, & Suicidal Behavior as Sequels of Sexual Abuse in Childhood: Research & Therapy

The role of childhood abuse & disruption in the development of impaired self-esteem & vulnerability to stress, including lack of coping resources & lack of close emotional & psychological ties with others is discussed, & a model linking vulnerability & stress to the emergence of serious depression in abuse survivors is presented. The evaluation of group therapy which increases the self-esteem, coping skills & social support of women who have survived abusive events in childhood is presented.