Sexuality is not limited to biological aspects of reproduction, but is understood as one component of the total personality. It affects one s concept of personal identity and self-esteem. If the victim does not resolve this trauma, a child may experience sexual dysfunctions as an adult. Many children of severe physical or sexual abuse suffer long-term disturbances as an adult. They may experience nightmare or flashbacks, much like survivors of war, or may freeze up, become calm in situations of extreme stress.
Dissociation is employed by children to escape from their abuser.
Psychiatrists contend that if repeatedly invoked in childhood, dissociation prevents memories from being integrated into the conscientious and can lead to an altered sense of self, leaving them prey to multiple personalities. Adults may continue to use dissociation as a coping mechanism. Once this develops, the psychological system resists treatment. Children of sexual abuse can grow up to be involved in crime, suicide, drug involvement and more sexual abuse. He has kept me up on the out come of what is going on and we here at M.O.M.s are glad to have him in his position.