Perceptions of Maternal Support as Related to Self-Concept and Self-Report of Depression in Sexually Abused Female Adolescents

This study evaluated the relationship between perceptions of maternal support, self-concept and depression in sexually abused adolescents. Fifty adolescent victims of sexual abuse who were in treatment, and their mothers, participated in this research. Questionnaires completed at three time points assessed levels of self-concept, symptoms of depression, and perceptions of maternal support. Adolescent participants who perceived their mothers as “supportive” had higher self-concept scores and fewer symptoms of depression after treatment and at follow-up when compared to adolescents who perceived their mothers as “non-supportive.” A definition of “support” was developed based on both daughter and mother perceptions.