The impact of preadoptive childhood sexual abuse on adopted boys

The intent of this study was to explore the impact of preadoptive sexual abuse on adopted boys. This study was based on the first wave of data collected through the Florida Adoptive Families study, a longitudinal look at characteristics that allow for successful adoptive placements. This study was guided by the research on preadoptive sexual abuse, the sexual abuse of boys research, the Sexual Abuse of Males model (Spiegel, 2003), and the concept of Restrictive Emotionality described in gender role conflict theory (O'Neil, 1981). Multiple imputation and generalized estimating equations were used to enhance the confidence in the validity of the statistical results.;The findings revealed that adopted boys with preadoptive histories of sexual abuse presented with higher levels of preadoptive adjustment needs and externalizing behavior compared to their non-sexually abused, adopted male peers. As a preadoptive risk factor, adopted boys with preadoptive sexual abuse histories were at greater adoption placement risk compared to adopted boys with physical abuse histories, neglect and/or abandonment histories, or no histories of abuse. The moderating analyses indicated that adopted boys with sexual abuse histories who present with higher levels of preadoptive adjustment needs and lower levels of emotional exchange (i.e., deficits in expressing feelings, identifying feelings, and reciprocating feelings) are at risk for escalated externalizing behavior. In addition, emotional exchange (i.e., the ability to express feelings, identify feelings, and reciprocate feelings) and emotional and behavioral regulation partially mediated the association between preadoptive adjustment needs and externalizing behavior. In other words, adopted boys with sexual abuse histories who had elevated levels of preadoptive adjustment needs displayed fewer externalizing behavior problems, partly as a result of their ability to identify feelings, express feelings, reciprocate feelings, and regulate emotions and behaviors.;Although the impact of preadoptive sexual abuse appears to complicate adoption adjustment, the findings suggest a pathway to hope for these families. The implications of how preadoption and postadoption services could assist these families are discussed. Adoptive parents may hold the key to helping to facilitate the emotional exchange and emotional and behavioral regulation abilities of their sons and ultimately foster successful placement experiences.