Use of support groups with adult female survivors of child sexual abuse.

Adult survivors of child sexual abuse suffer from a variety of interpersonal and intrapersonal problems. The support group, with its emphasis on self-help and mutuality, represents a potentially powerful form of intervention to assist survivors in dealing with their sexual abuse and the problems resulting from it. In this article, the author explores the use of this form of group work, including the unique role of the group leader, the value of a time-limited approach, the stages of group development, and treatment themes.