Alcohol Use Disorders in Female Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

This article reviews some of the recent research concerning factors that contribute to the development of alcohol use disorders in females who were sexually abused as children. Issues pertaining to a possible history of childhood sexual abuse are often overlooked in treating adult females who have alcohol use disorders. Implications for assessment and treatment are discussed. It is recommended that mental health and substance abuse counselors become aware of strategies to detect the interactive effects of these two disorders so that a more integrated and effective treatment approach can be implemented.