Grant: Master's Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

Increased awareness of the prevalence of child sexual abuse has driven recent research surrounding the long-term consequences of sexual victimization. This form of abuse has been associated with a wide range of physical and mental health concerns. In order to effectively address these issues and provide appropriate treatment, it is crucial that research begin to examine factors potentially mediating the relationship between child sexual abuse and health. One such factor may be the attachment security of abuse survivors. Attachment theory suggests that relationships with caregivers in early childhood influence similar behavioural patterns in later intimate relationships. In the case of child sexual abuse, normal attachment patterns are thought to be disrupted, particularly when the perpetrator of abuse is also the child's caregiver. In addition, insecure attachment styles have been linked to poorer physical health. The current study will examine the interactions between child sexual abuse, attachment styles, and physical health outcomes. Understanding factors that might influence the development of health problems can aid in structuring preventative programs as well as the course of treatment for survivors of child sexual abuse.