Revictimization as a Sequela to Childhood Sexual Abuse of Females

Research literature pertaining to revictimization as a sequela to childhood sexual abuse of females is reviewed and the methodology critiqued. Inconsistent definitions of the variables and a variety of possible intervening factors make the attribution of direct causality between sexual abuse in childhood and subsequent revictimization in adulthood difficult to determine. However, adult women who are sexually victimized by others or physically abused in intimate relationships have a higher incidence of childhood sexual abuse than the general population. Women who victimize themselves through prostitution, self-injury and suicide are also more likely than females in the general population to be survivors of sexual abuse in childhood. Theories of revictimization are presented and recommendations for future research are proposed. Contains 44 references. (Author)