Disclosure Characteristics and PTSD in Child Sexual Abuse Survivors: A Retrospective Forensic Evaluation Study in Southern Taiwan

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is strongly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), yet the role of disclosure patterns in PTSD development remains underexplored. This study analyzed 85 forensic psychiatric evaluations of CSA cases in Southern Taiwan (2011–2024) to examine whether disclosure method, abuse frequency, and related variables predicted PTSD. Bivariate analyses showed a significant association between number of abuse events and PTSD status (p = .026), with trends for disclosure method and domestic violence. Logistic regression revealed that both disclosure method (p = .037) and number of abuse events (p = .053) independently predicted PTSD. Intrafamilial disclosure was associated with higher PTSD risk compared to self-disclosure (OR = 3.93, p = .036). These findings underscore the psychological impact of CSA and the importance of culturally sensitive, developmentally appropriate disclosure practices to mitigate trauma and support recovery.