Impact Evaluation of a Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy Model in Brazilian Sexually Abused Girls |
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Authors: | Luísa Fernanda Habigzang Bruno Figueiredo Damásio Silvia Helena Koller |
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Affiliation: | 1. Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul , Porto Alegre , Brazil habigzang.luisa@gmail.com;3. Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul , Porto Alegre , Brazil |
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Abstract: | This study evaluated the impact of a cognitive behavioral group therapy model in Brazilian girls who had experienced sexual abuse. The effect of the waiting period before treatment and the enduring effectiveness of the treatment after six and 12 months were also evaluated. Forty-nine female sexual abuse victims between the ages of 9 and 16 completed instruments measuring depression, anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder before, during, and after the group therapy. The group therapy had a positive impact on their psychological functioning, significantly reducing symptoms of anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The therapeutic effects lasted six to 12 months after the treatment ended. The model proved effective for treating young female victims of sexual abuse. |
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Keywords: | children adolescents sexual abuse mistreatment cognitive behavioral therapy group psychotherapy |
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