Family variables associated with the onset and impact of intrafamilial childhood sexual abuse

Researchers and clinicians have examined variables mediating the onset and consequences of childhood incest. Overall research has illuminated two primary clusters of variables that appear to significantly impact a childʹs response and adjustment to incest. The purpose of this article was to help elucidate one of these clusters of variables: those family variables which both contribute to the onset of and childʹs response to incest. Overall, it was evident that little empirically sound research exists in this area. Preliminary results of the few existing well-designed studies suggested that increased risk for onset of and poor adjustment to incest is associated with status of perpetrator, perpetrator substance abuse, nonoffending motherʹs absence, lack of maternal support toward incested daughter, and other specific family environment characteristics. Articles were critically evaluated for methodological flaws and suggestions for improving future research were made.