Childhood Sexual Abuse and Complex PTSD

Adversity in childhood is known to have lifelong effects. Abuse disrupts the path of normal development, leading to a wide range of psychological and physical conditions. These conditions can emerge later in life, yet have their origins in the family environment. CSA creates ongoing adversity that begins in childhood and escalates as a consuming, persistent inner conflict that continues to re-traumatize long into adulthood. This leaves the victim vulnerable to increased stress response throughout life and has a direct correlation to quality of life and longevity.

This eBook is focused on CPTSD as it relates to childhood sexual abuse. It looks at the effects of recurrent traumas and chronic stress for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, based on available scientific and medical knowledge.

This writing provides an informal literature review, based on the author’s findings in researching complex post-traumatic stress disorder and childhood sexual abuse. It explores references to the mental and physical health impacts of abuse and the strategies used to cope with and recover from complex post-traumatic stress disorder. References are extended to include endocrine and immune system issues that result from chronic stress; a problem often seen in those with CPTSD.

In this eBook, I will share some of the core research available on complex post-traumatic stress disorder; materials that I have found helpful in better understanding my condition and its origins. Further, I will provide references to methods that can promote beneficial psychological development using reframing techniques, self-therapy, self-care programs and professional therapy to guide recovery and personal growth.