THE EFFECTS OF SEXUAL ABUSE ON 3 TO 5-YEAR-OLD GIRLS

This study examined the initial effects of sexual abuse on 70 girls ag ed 3 to 5 years. They were compared to a control group of 42 nonabused nonclinical girls matched for age. Of the 70 girls in the abused grou p, the 42 who had experienced intrafamilial abuse were also compared t o the 28 who had experienced extrafamilial abuse. Evaluation of effect s was based on maternal reports and very importantly, given this young age group, on direct observation. Children from both abuse groups dis played more evidence of distress on ail measures. In particular, more sexual behaviors and more internalizing problem behaviors were reporte d and observed. Girls who were abused by a member of their family demo nstrated some elevations in symptomatology, but generally there was no t a significant difference between the two abuse groups. Poorer outcom e was associated with a more noxious family environment and with repea ted, more invasive abuse. The association of abuse and family characte ristics that exacerbated the effects of sexual abuse on the child unde rscores the need for early detection and careful clinical assessment o f the family as well as the child.