Secondary Symptoms of Sexual Abuse
Childhood and adolescent sexual abuse damages a developing human being. Listed below are some common secondary symptoms of abuse survivors. This list is not comprehensive, nor do all abuse survivors manifest these behaviors. However, many of these symptoms are present in older teens and adults who've experienced sexual abuse.
- Anger management problems
- Isolation and loneliness
- Depression
- Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, food hoarding, overeating, etc.)
- Body image problems
- Workaholic
- Substance abuse
- Sexual dysfunction or confusion
- Self-mutilation (cutting, burning, etc.)
- Sleep disorders
- Hypervigilance
- Anxiety and fear
- Dysfunctional relationships
- Spiritual void or disillusionment
- Difficulty concentrating
- Performance-based self-value
- Intimacy problems
- Trust issues
- Poor self-image
- Disconnection from self, others and God
- Stress-related physical problems
- Poor or impaired parenting skills
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Other Things to Consider
Related Topics
Life Pressures: Workaholism
Parenting Teens: Drugs and Alcohol, Eating Disorders, Internet Concerns
Relationships: Anger
