-
Unaccountable
fear, for example, fear of the dark or of a particular person.
-
Fear of
separation or of being alone.
-
Refusal to be
left alone.
-
Fear of people
of a specific type or gender .
-
Difficulty in
sleeping or nightmares.
-
Withdrawal or
isolation
-
Regression to
infant-like behavior, e.g., bed-wetting.
-
Sudden changes
in mood or behavior .
-
Destructive
tendencies,
-
Drug or
alcohol abuse, suicidal tendencies .
-
Eating
disorders.
-
Cruelty to
animals (more characteristic of male victims) .
-
Self-blame
occurs when victims of sexual abuse experience a negative sense
of self and perception of their bodies. It includes the burden
of feeling guilty and being responsible for the abuse or the
consequences of disclosure. These feelings are likely to be
reflected in self-destructive behaviors such as risk taking
acts, self-mutilation, suicidal gestures and acts, and
provocative behavior designed to elicit punishment.
-
Perhaps the
most fundamental damage from sexual abuse is its undermining of
trust in those people who are supposed to be protectors and
nurturers. Behavior related to feelings of betrayal includes
manipulating others, involvement in damaging relationships, and
engaging in angry behavior.
