Research on the Sexual Victimization of Women:Implications for Counselor Training

The mental health effects of victimization of women comprise one of five priority research areas identified by the National Institute of Mental Health. However, little attention has been paid to this issue in counseling research. In this article, we review research on the prevalence and effects of three types of victimization of women: child sexual abuse, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. This research suggests that victimization is quite common among women and has serious detrimental effects on their mental health. We also present data indicating that victimization experiences are common among female counseling center clients. Several recommendations for counselor training in the area of victimization are offered.