Firesetting, Sexual Abuse and Long-Term Consequences

In this chapter we summarize the limited studies on post-pubertal consequences of female childhood sexual abuse that includes both psychological distress and physiological stress. The characteristics of sexual abuse are discussed and determined to play a major role in the degree of trauma experienced and in the later effects. The concept of hormones and how disruptions in various endocrine systems can affect the development of these females are examined, especially during the pubertal period. Outcomes of interest included competence, in terms of cognitive, social, self-esteem, and locus of control, and psychopathology including depression, anxiety, dissociation, and hypersexuality. Direct physical results and associated future healthcare utilization discussed. ' Correspondence: Professor Hatim A Omar, MD, J422 Kentucky Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0284, United States of America. E-mail : hatim. umru~h> uky.edu. 70 Lesley Davidson and Hatim A Omar