Psychotherapeutic change in children and adolescents who have been victims of sexual abuse: Evaluation of the continuity and characterization of change after psychotherapy

Background: There are few studies in psychotherapy in child sexual abuse that includes follow-up after therapy. Objetive: To explore the continuity of psychotherapeutic change in children that have been victims of sexual abuse after therapy ended and to characterize it, integrating their perspectives and the one of their responsible adults. Methods: a study with mix methods was done, incorporating 10 children and adolescents between 7 and 17 years old. Symptomatology was assessed at the beginning and end of psychotherapy, and after 1 to 2 years after therapy ended. At follow up children and adolescents, and their responsible adults were interviewed. Quantitative data (symptomatology instruments) was analyzed with non-parametric tests and qualitative data (interviews) with narrative analysis. Results: Significant differences were found between symptomatology evaluated quantitatively at pre, post-therapy and follow up, showing changes after therapy that maintains at follow-up. With interviews different areas of change accomplished during therapy are identified, which maintains after therapy, highlighting factors that facilitate it. Conclusions: Relevant factors for the maintenance of change after therapy are discussed, such as working with the responsible adult and ending contact with the aggressor.