Institutionalized adolescents in therapy: Narratives of psychotherapy and healing from sexual abuse

Abstract

Adolescent sexual abuse is a pressing social issue worldwide, specifically for institutionalized population that lack access to alternative care such as family-based op-tions. This study examines narratives associated with healing from sexual abuse among teenagers in long-term residential care programs who have successfully completed spe-cialized psychotherapy. Using a qualitative research methodology and multiple case analysis, in-depth interviews were conducted with five adolescents and then analyzed us-ing thematic narrative analysis. Results show two different narrative positions regarding the meanings of healing after an experience of sexual abuse: narratives of healing and in-complete healing. In addition, factors that influence the healing process are observed, of which psychotherapy and therapeutic relationships are key. Study participants' own voices show the possibilities for generating recovery narratives among adolescents in residential care who have been sexually assaulted, highlighting aspects of therapeutic in-tervention that may better orientate psychotherapy for this specific group.