The Perceived Role of Sexual Abuse in the Lives of Lesbian Women: The Impact of Sexual Abuse on Sexual Identity, Sexual Expression, and Sexual Orientation
The Perceived Role of Sexual Abuse in the Lives of Lesbian Women: The Impact of Sexual Abuse on Sexual Identity, Sexual Expression, and Sexual Orientation
Issue Date
2012
Authors
Hernes, Reeta Balwinder
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Abstract
Recent studies have examined and compared the reported statistical rates of sexual abuse in heterosexual and gay female populations but none have postulated reasons for large differences in these rates. This study sought to do so by examining the impact of sexual abuse in the lives of lesbian women with regard to sexual identity, sexual expression, and sexual orientation. Semistructured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 26 participants from across the United States. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze and code interviews. Results showed that sexual abuse seems to have minimal influence over sexual identity and sexual orientation but does significantly impact sexual expression. Participants are unable to engage in sexual acts that resemble their sexual abuse experiences; this inability has been noted with both male and female sexual partners. Psychotherapy was used most often by participants to explore their sexual identity and orientation, as well as to process sexually traumatic experiences. The majority of participants have questioned themselves if their lesbian identity is a result of sexual abuse but have come to believe that the sexual abuse has not altered their sexual orientation. Participants identified three reasons explaining the higher reported incidences of sexual abuse in the lesbian community. Suggestions for future research regarding these reasons are presented.
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Keywords
"sexual abuse","lesbianism","sexuality","sexual orientation","sexual identity"