Childhood sexual abuse and substance abuse in relation to depression and coping

Abstract

Objectives: To examine relationships between childhood sexual abuse (CSA), substance abuse, substance abuse relapse, depression and coping styles in an Australian sample. Methods: Participants were 79 adults actively seeking treatment for substance abuse or CSA. CSA and substance use history were assessed using a purpose built questionnaire. Depression was assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory Second Edition (BDI‐II), and coping styles were evaluated using the Coping Scale for Adults.

Results: Among substance abusers, self‐reported CSA history was associated with (1) severe depression; (2) less optimistic coping; (3) longer duration of substance abuse; and (4) the use of drugs to alleviate negative moods. A non‐substance‐abusing CSA group was remarkably similar to the CSA substance‐abusing group on all measures. Penetrative abuse, younger age at CSA onset, and lack of confidence in dealing with CSA were associated with more severe depression in CSA victims.

Conclusions: Despite several limitations of the present study, these findings have implications for treatment of substance abusing CSA victims and suggest directions for future research on the CSA‐substance disorder relationship.

• Childhood sexual abuse
• substance abuse
• depression
• coping style