Research Symposium

BIO

I am currently pursuing a BA in English along with a minor in Psychology. My assistantship with Dr. McKiernan inspired me to submit an application for one of FSU's IDEA grants, which will culminate in an 8 week long creative research project over the Summer semester. Over the course of these 8 weeks, I hope to create a personal non-fiction piece centering on the politicization of sadomasochism in tandem with new radical feminist rhetoric.
Upon completion of my undergraduate studies, I intend to apply to several MFT graduate programs. My ultimate goal is to combine my interest in literature and psychology into a career in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis on sex therapy.

Adult Survivors’ of CSA Experiences with Parent Disclosure Response

Abstract

Sexual abuse during childhood is extremely rampant in American societies. While this experience is inherently traumatic, disclosure experiences between victims and their parental figures offer an opportunity for healing. Despite the potential for understanding and acceptance, experiences of sexual abuse disclosure also have the potential to induce harm. This study was interested in understanding how parents’ and parent figure’s responses to adult disclosures of Childhood Sexual Abuse (CSA) impacted their children’s perception of the disclosure experience. It further evaluated the ability of parent’s responses to either strengthen or hinder the relationship with their child. The studies’ goal was then to apply these results to a theoretical framework and describe the most helpful ways for parents to respond to their children’s disclosures. In depth semi-structured interviews with fifteen participants revealed specific responses that hindered and strengthened relationships. In developing the theory, five themes emerged. The five themes included statements, questions, behaviors, positionality, and follow up questions. Additionally, wished for responses, familial context, and ongoing CSA discussions were emphasized. Parents’ specific approaches to each of these themes contextualized the impact of the CSA. In future CSA disclosures, parents can apply the in-depth theoretical framework developed by this study to inform responses to CSA disclosure.

Keywords: mft, csa, sexual abuse, child sexual abuse