Effects of Early Abuse on Adult Intimate Relationships

Effects of Early Abuse on Adult Intimate Relationships

This study is designed to help us better understand the factors that affect the sexual lives of women who have been sexually mistreated during childhood. With this study we hope to learn about factors that may be promising targets for future treatments of sexual problems related to past sexual experiences. The investigators hypothesize that women who have experienced early sexual abuse are more likely to have sexual problems in adulthood than women who were not abuse in childhood.

Inclusion Criteria:

• at least one involuntary sexual experience, defined as "unwanted oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, penetration of the vagina or anus using objects or digits, or genital touching or fondling," before age 16 and no less than 2 years prior to enrollment.
• currently sexually active or cohabiting in a potentially sexual relationship.
• current sexual dysfunction, distress, or low sexual satisfaction

Exclusion Criteria:

• traumatic event in the previous three months
• sexual abuse in the past two years
• diagnosis of a psychotic disorder in the previous six months
• significant suicidal or homicidal intent
• currently receiving psychotherapy for sexual or abuse-related concerns
• use of illicit drugs
• in a currently abusive relationship