The Consequences of Sexual Abuse of Minors

Nicolaï, N. J.
Place PublishedAmsterdam
PublisherBalans
ExtentChapter, summarized
Research overview

On behalf of the Commission for Examination of Sexual Abuse of Minors in the Roman-Catholic Church

  • [* in the Netherlands];

In: Rapport Commissie Deetman, Balans, 2011, Part 2.

Summary and conclusions in English by Frans E J Gieles, PhD.

In this essay, sexual abuse is, conform the scientific and juridical mores, defined as "... sexual-genital manipulation of a child below the age of sixteen, by an adult of whom the child is dependent or with whom he or she has a relationship of confidence, with the aim of satisfaction of the sexual need of the first. [...] There is an age difference, and/or a difference in power, by which the child is not able to refuse the sexual contact, which is not consensual."

Research of the later consequences of sexual abuse is done in three phases or generations of research.

The most recent research explores what has appeared to be the most central factor: disturbance of the stress regulation.

There is consensus about harm for the physical and emotional health, especially the attachment and sexuality, even if the consequences are invisible at first sight. They are just like a time bomb, that explodes as soon as, in adulthood, the impact of the events becomes significant.