Boys in middle childhood placed in a clinic school: experiences of sexual abuse.

Abstract

This study formed part of a larger research project, which aimed to develop an intervention strategy to support sexually abused boys in their middle childhood placed in a clinic school. The experiences of these boys were explored in this study. For the purpose of this study seven sexually abused boys in their middle childhood (9-12 years) placed in two clinic schools in Gauteng fitted the criteria for inclusion in the study and were selected through purposive sampling. Data were obtained through four in-depth interviews with each participant. These data were then thematically analysed. From the results it was clear that sexually abused boys placed in clinic schools exhibit intensified emotional reactions, as well as certain problems associated with male child sexual abuse. The intensified emotional reactions included a deep sense of sadness and helplessness, a sense of guilt and shame, a sense of dissociation and numbness, avoidance of situations associated with male child sexual abuse, fear of recurring incidents and the re-experiencing of the trauma. The problems associated with male child sexual abuse included concerns regarding own sexuality, difficulties in interacting with other people, dealing with anger and aggression, displaying self-destructive behaviour and difficulties to cope with schoolwork.