HIV vulnerability and the adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to sensitize clinicians working in the field of childhood physical/sexual abuse to the connection between untreated childhood traumatization and HIV high-risk behaviors. The characteristic abuse symptoms of chronic depression, sexual compulsivity, revictimization, and substance abuse are identified as barriers to HIV education and intervention for survivors. An overview of the existing HIV/child abuse connection research, an illustrative case history and a discussion regarding the clinical implications of these connections are offered.