Living with a Female Sexual Abuse Survivor: Male Partners' Perspectives

ABSTRACT

This article reports the results of a qualitative study which addressed the effects of women's childhood sexual abuse (CSA) on male partners and the couple relationship. Survivors' anger, sexual difficulties, engagement in physical intimacy, and even signs of healing created uncertainty and unpredictability for male partners. Partners expressed concerns about individually-focused survivors' therapy which can create additional strains in already burdened relationships. Suggestions are presented for a more systemic approach which would also address partners' needs.