Evaluation of Outcome in A Dynamically Orientated Group for Adult Males Who Have Been Sexually Abused in Childhood

At a time when males abused in childhood are coming increasingly to attention of clinical services, we review the literature, describe the process and report on clinical outcomes of a slow open long-term dynamically orientated group for abused adult males. Twenty-nine men referred to the local psychotherapy service for consideration for inclusion in the group are discussed along with some of the most prevailing themes, namely identification with the aggressor, self-esteem, guilt and sexuality. Symptoms were measured using the SCL 90-R and demonstrate relatively high levels of psychological distress in this group at initial assessment. There is significant improvement in global scores, interpersonal sensitivity, depression and psychoticism in the group of 13 men who engaged in therapy for at least six months compared with those who did not.

The authors conclude that symptom measurement provides evidence that group psychotherapy is a useful therapeutic approach in a group of men who might otherwise be considered unsuitable for psychotherapeutic interventions due to symptom severity and personality difficulties.