Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the appropriateness of increased partner involvement in the therapeutic process as perceived by married female adult victims of childhood sexual abuse. The female patient in 17 heterosexual couples was interviewed in order to investigate the level of her partner's involvement in the therapeutic process and to determine the survivor's perception of appropriate partner involvement in the treatment of childhood sexual abuse. The interviews confirmed that increased partner involvement in the therapeutic process is perceived as an essential component of recovery. The participants strongly endorsed greater partner involvement in the recovery process through couple therapy to deal with related marital issues, to maintain partner support for therapy, and to educate the partner about childhood sexual abuse.