Struggling in the depths of darkness : the healing professionals' perspectives of the coping strategies of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to explore the healing professionals' perspectives of the coping strategies of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. One of the aims of this study was to raise awareness among social workers and other professionals of the common coping strategies among survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Healing professionals, namely social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists, were the main participants who contributed in this research. Their perceptions were gathered and analysed by utilizing a qualitative method of research. Data was collected through standardized open-ended interviews. The main themes concerning the perspectives of healing professionals with regards to adult survivors' coping strategies were highlighted and analysed. Furthermore, the differences and similarities between the different healing professionals' perceptions were also identified. Results indicated that healing professionals perceive coping strategies among adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse to be either maladaptive or healthy. Thus it can be concluded that some survivors cope very well whereas other survivors cope not so well by developing problematic: behaviour or symptoms. As a result, it can have an impact on their relationships within their family and with those around them. According to the professionals interviewed, survivors resort to particular coping strategies so to alleviate anxiety, soothe emotional pain, and control inner conflict. Moreover, from the professionals' perspectives, it can also be concluded that gender differences are also evident among survivors and their way of coping with the trauma. While male survivors tend to become aggressive and develop outward directed behaviour, female survivors are more likely to develop inward-directed behaviour. The participants highlight socialization and culture as main reasons for these differences.