Abused-Abuser Dilemma in Sexual Abuse and Forensic Evaluation: a Case Report

The factors such as family problems, growing up in a disintegrated family, personality disorders in parents, physical and mental deficiencies, alcohol and substance abuse, previous history of sexual abuse, and lack of social support may increase the risk of being exposed to sexual abuse. According to the previous studies, it is known that about one third of children who are subjected to abuse may become abusers in the future. In such a condition, a dilemma of abuse-abuser has been experienced. Importantly, additional medical mistakes and lack of experience make legal evaluation processes more complex. A pediatric patient who was abused by her babysitter and had a history of abuse in her adolescence is discussed in this case report. Early recognition of sexual abuse, treatment of developing psychiatric disorders and a follow up program are necessary in order to minimize the vicious cycle of abused-abuser.