VICTIM TO ABUSER - MENTAL-HEALTH AND BEHAVIORAL SEQUELS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN A COMMUNITY SURVEY OF YOUNG-ADULT MALES

Respondents in a stratified random sample of 750 males aged 18 to 27 i n Calgary, Canada were asked to recall unwanted sexual contacts occurr ing before their 17th birthday: 117 (15.6%) had experienced one or mor e unwanted sexual contacts. Those recalling multiple events of abuse ( 52 individuals, 6.9% of all respondents) were distinguished from other respondents at a statistically significant level on the following ind icators: emotional abuse in childhood, higher rates of current or rece nt depression, anxiety, suicidal feelings and behavior, and current se xual interest in or actual behavior involving minors. The combination of emotional abuse in the respondent's childhood with multiple events of sexual abuse was a relatively good predictor of both poor mental he alth, and later sexual interest in or sexual contact with children. Ei ght apparently active pedophiles were identified. using a computer res ponse system that assured anonymity. This study underscores the need f or preventive measures, and the prompt identification and treatment of victims before they enter the victim-to-abuser cycle.