Date of Award
12-1994
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Sociology
First Advisor
Dr. Paul Wienir
Second Advisor
Dr. Subhash Sonnad
Third Advisor
Dr. Jim Petersen
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
This study explored the traumatic effect of childhood incestuous abuse on the adult survivor. Eleven subjects were interviewed for this study. Hindman's (1989) trauma scale was revised, exploring issues of relationships, mental health, and living skills dysfunctions. In addition to the global score, the scale was disaggregated. Relationships between trauma and age at onset, physical and emotional violence, frequency, identification of self as victim, current relationship with offender, and response to disclosure were explored.
Several dimensions of feeling responsible were reported by victims, including feeling that there was something about them that made others victimize them, feeling responsible for protecting younger siblings, and feeling obligated to meet the offenders' needs. Previous researchers have not explored these differences. The two most prevalent outcomes of abuse cited by respondents were depression and difficulty in trusting others.
Recommended Citation
Hedberg, Jane Kay, "Trauma in Adult Incest Survivors" (1994). Masters Theses. 4639.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4639