The importance of recognizing a history of sexual abuse in female adolescents.

We have become increasingly aware of sexual abuse in our society, and yet the majority of teens who were sexually abused as children enter adolescence carrying the secret of their abuse. Such hidden abuse may have devastating effects on the development of personal identity, self-esteem, attitudes, behaviors, and interpersonal relationships that may persist and set a pattern for a troubled adulthood. This article details how children cope with a sexually abusive situation, the long-term effects of unresolved sexual abuse, and diagnostic criteria to differentiate a hidden history of sexual abuse from other trauma and conditions. Focus is on recognizing and assessing "legitimate" symptoms that may be conscious or unconscious cries for help by victims of previous sexual abuse. Correct diagnosis is essential to appropriate intervention to lessen possible further psychologic damage during adolescence.