Disclosure Experiences of Child Sexual Abuse Survivors in the Philippines
Keywords:
Child Sexual Abuse Survivors, Disclosure Context, Female Survivors, Phenomenology, PhilippinesAbstract
Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a pervasive global issue with long-lasting consequences on survivors’ mental health and well-being. This study explores the lived experiences of CSA survivors in a public secondary school in Negros Occidental, focusing on their disclosure processes. A descriptive phenomenological research design was utilized to capture the essence of the survivors’ experiences, making it particularly suitable for understanding the deeply personal and complex emotions, thoughts, and behaviors associated with CSA disclosure. Four female participants aged 12 to 17 years, identified through purposive sampling and records from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), shared their narratives through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Lichtman’s 3Cs method of analysis revealed four major themes: negative emotional responses (fear, shame, and anger), recurrence of trauma memories (anxiety), coping mechanisms (help-seeking and acceptance), and access to support systems (family and institutional support). Ethical safeguards, including informed consent, parental involvement, confidentiality, and the presence of social workers and counselors, ensured a safe and nonjudgmental environment for participants to share their experiences. The findings underscore the profound emotional scars CSA survivors endure, the importance of supportive networks in their recovery, and the critical role of ethical, trauma-informed interventions in encouraging disclosure and fostering healing. This study provides valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers in designing effective support systems that empower survivors and promote their long-term well-being.
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