부산대학교 도서관

Background:The psychological long-term effects of sexual abuse in childhood are typically associated with diverse symptoms. To date, these symptoms may be best conceptualized as complex posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Objectives:Based on a prototypal case, we overview multiple facets of complex PTSD during child- and adulthood, as well as associated diagnostic challenges particularly regarding symptom overlap with borderline personality disorder and current evidence-based psychotherapeutic options. With the present work, we aim to sensitize clinicians to trauma-related disorders.Methods:Case report, narrative review of the current literature, and comparable analysis of the diagnostic criteria in the different classification systems.Results and conclusions:Although epidemiological studies report high rates of childhood sexual abuse, the symptoms of a subsequently developing complex PTSD are still frequently unidentified or falsely diagnosed by practitioners. Therefore, the specific trauma history should be reviewed if multiple, diverse, or varying symptoms and diagnoses are on hand. Trauma- and confrontation-oriented psychotherapeutic approaches might prevent further chronic manifestations of the symptoms.