Effects of practitioners' sexual misconduct: a follow-up study.

Abstract

A clinic population presenting with problems related to practitioner sexual misconduct was surveyed to describe their characteristics, distinguish the impact of the sexual misconduct from preexisting problems, and identify factors helpful in recovery. Using a 180-item anonymous questionnaire, subjects described their situation before and after the misconduct. The Impact of Event Scale and Vinson's instrument measured posttraumatic symptoms among respondents. The population comprised 107 women. Participation was 63 percent (55 of 87) of delivered surveys. Mean age at the time of the sexual contact was 31.6. Posttraumatic stress disorder, Major depressive disorder, suicidality, use of prescription drugs, concern over use of alcohol and/or nonprescription drugs, disrupted relationships, and disruptions in work or earning potential were all reported to be increased after the practitioner misconduct. When survey respondents sought help for problems related to the sexual misconduct, they contacted an average of 2.36 professionals before obtaining "satisfactory" assistance. Eighteen percent of respondents reported sexual revictimization by subsequent professionals. Most respondents reported substantial (at least 100 hours over the course of three or more years) use of professional mental health services. Many women who seek treatment following practitioner sexual misconduct can be expected to exhibit significant symptoms of mental illness and functional impairment. They require both intensive and extensive subsequent treatment, yet are vulnerable to professional revictimization.

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