The Current Relationships of Taiwanese Women With a History of Childhood Sexual Abuse to Their Non-Offending Mothers

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to explore the mother–daughter relationships of Taiwanese women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Using a life-history design, qualitative data were collected from 11 Taiwanese participants. The results identified both positive and negative images of the mother–daughter bond. Cultural factors, including seeking harmony in relationships and valuing female virginity and filial piety, impacted the view of closeness and the use of avoidance strategies in the mother–daughter bond. The changes in the mother–daughter relationships grew out of participants' life experiences and developmental maturity. Moreover, participants reported that they have learned diligence from their mothers and use diligence to deal with the impact of CSA. Once participants perceived that they had this strength, they were able to look at their mother–daughter relationships more positively. The study suggests that cultural factors may affect the long-term consequences of CSA for Taiwanese mothers and daughters.

KEYWORDS:

• adult Taiwanese mother-daughter relationships
• childhood sexual abuse
• non-offending mothers

This article is derived from a doctoral dissertation, “The Relationships of Taiwanese Women With a History of Childhood Sexual Abuse to Their Non-Offending Mothers.” The author wishes to acknowledge the Chiang Ching-Kuo Foundation for International Scholarly Exchange (USA) for the dissertation fellowship.