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Understanding the Effects of Sexual Trauma

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Understanding the Effects of Sexual Trauma
Julie Johnson
Liberty University
Crisis Counseling
302-B04
March 8, 2015

Abstract
Rape and sexual trauma are not just physical violations, but also violations of mental and emotional well-being that leaves the victim with a lifetime of emotional distress. Victims of sexual trauma are often left with devastating consequences that affect the physical, psychological, social and even financial part of their lives. Because the rate of sexual violence continues to increase, researchers study the side effects extensively. Adverse effects of sexual violence are individualized and very diverse, leaving victims with a broad range of impacts. This paper will define what sexual trauma is and the devastating effects it can leave on the lives of the survivors. It will cover different variables such as the psychological impact of the immediate, short term and long term as well as the physical, social, and financial effects of childhood and adult sexual trauma. This paper will hope to promote further discussions on the effects of sexual trauma left on the lives of the victim as to help any individuals and organizations that might work with the victims of such violent acts. The analysis of this report would aim to support individuals working with victims in the recovery process of sexual trauma from family support, spiritual support, and the counseling process.

Understanding the Effects of Sexual Trauma
According to Basile & Saltzman, (2002), the definition of sexual violence was developed by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The definition as stated in the Sexual Violence Surveillance Uniform Definitions And Recommended Data Elements is “sexual violence includes completed or attempted penetration of the genital opening or anus by the penis, a hand, a finger, or any other object, or penetration of the mouth

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