Common psychological defenses seen in the treatment of sexually abused adolescents

Article Abstract:

Sexual abuse in childhood frequently has long-lasting and extremely damaging effects on the victim. Often the abuse is not revealed until some time after it occurs, and then only after treatment is sought for seemingly unrelated behavioral problems. Ironically, these victims often begin to exhibit inappropriate sexually provocative behavior in an attempt to recreate components of the abuse experience. Often these symptoms, which are frequently an effort to form a reaction or a denial of the abuse, are not recognized by parents or caretakers. The effects of childhood sexual abuse upon adolescents have been examined with attention to common psychological defenses created by the victim. Child sexual abuse has been defined as 'contacts or interaction between a child and an adult when the child is being used for the sexual stimulation of that adult or another person.' Data derived from clinical cases are presented to illustrate defensive behavior patterns. Some of the characteristics observed in these adolescents that were developed as a defense mechanism include denial, a refusal to accept the reality of what occurred; projection, a mechanism in which feelings of self-blame and worthlessness are attributed to others; acting out, the expression of an unconscious impulse or wish in an attempt to be freed of the conscious acknowledgement of it; or displacement, focusing upon a situation of importance to substitute for the conflict. Other mechanisms that are observed are regression, distortion, and splitting. Splitting results when a dichotomy of self develops where the 'true-self' (representing feelings of rage and helplessness) is at odds with the 'false-self' (compliant and calm). The complexity of the negative psychological repercussions of sexual abuse is stressed. With the assistance of long-term therapy, the patient can connect with feelings generated by the trauma and resolve the residual feelings of shame and guilt. More research on the effects of this trauma and the development of defenses is suggested. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Psychological aspects, Child sexual abuse, Defense mechanisms (Psychology), Sexually abused teenagers

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Watchers in the night: an anthropological look at sleep disorders

Article Abstract:

Four groups of sleep disorder sufferers are described and discussed from an anthropological viewpoint. The first group suffers insomnia derived from the traumatic loss of a close emotional relationship. The second group feels vulnerable and afraid to sleep because of a past traumatic event (e.g., sexual abuse or war-related trauma). The third group never mastered the childhood developmental task of separating and individuating from parents; as adults, they cannot sleep if they are alone, and usually require a crutch or helpmate to prevent panic attacks and separation anxiety. The fourth group tends to sleep lightly, waken during the night, brood and worry. Research has shown that this last group is hypersensitive to environmental stimuli (e.g. noise), which triggers tendencies to fret and worry. It is argued that all four sleep-problems are rooted in ancient history, when our primitive ancestors were forced to sleep in groups in order to survive at night, when sleep rendered them vulnerable to predatory attacks. The biology of sleep cycles is interpreted in terms of the primitive need for protection. During a full night's sleep, humans undergo cycles which last about 90 minutes each. These sleep oscillations go from phases of total unawareness to easy arousal. Oscillations in individual sleepers ensured that if danger were near, someone in the clan would be in a state of arousal and could wake to warn the others. It is thought that more women than men have sleep disorders because women may have evolved as light sleepers so that they could wake suddenly to protect their children and help their men preserve energy for the next day's hunt. Examples are given to illustrate the anthropological basis for each type of sleep disorder. For instance, those who obsess throughout the night may have evolved from tribal situations in which they were forced to think, solve problems and create strategies to ensure their clan's survival. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Complications and side effects, History, Insomnia, Sleep disorders, Separation anxiety, Separation anxiety (Child psychology)

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