The current study assessed the effects of incest utilizing the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), an objective measure that can address such long term effects as low self esteem, isolation, depression, anxiety, suicidality, substance abuse, impaired sexual adjustment, psychosomatic concerns, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. Eighty-one women seeking counseling for issues related to an incestuous childhood, and 90 non sexually abused adult female clients completed the MMPI and a background information questionnaire.A Multivariate Analysis of Variance test comparing the mean profiles demonstrated that the incest group was more somatic, depressed, angry, anxious, and confused. A chi square analysis of two-point code type configurations found the incest group being more classified by the 48/84 and the 24/42 code types whereas the control group was more represented by the 46/64 code type. Lastly, the groups were compared by completing cluster analyses on each group's profiles. Both groups yielded an "overwhelmed" cluster that was statistically the same. Secondly, they each yielded a "normal" cluster that was similar but statistically different. Finally, the incest group yielded an "angry and confused" cluster and the control group yielded a "somatizer" cluster. Descriptions of the clusters and reasons for their differences are proposed.Differential impact was examined by comparing the incest clusters on number of abusers, use of threat or force, identity of the abuser, perceived betrayal by a non offending parent, length of time since abuse, and length of time in counseling. The only significant finding in these analyses was that the "overwhelmed" cluster had a greater number of abusers than the "angry and confused" and the "normal" clusters.The first two analyses were included in the study to validate the similarity of the present data with previous research and to demonstrate the myopic vision that results from analyzing the data in these manners. The cluster analysis allowed for the examination of the differential impact of the numerous long term sequalae. Recommendations for further research are presented as well as implications for treatment. / Department of Counseling Psychology and Guidance Services

The purpose of this action study was to conduct a group treatment program for female adult survivors of incest using TFA Systems™. Specifically this study examined the coping response behavior patterns of adult survivors in situations of perceived victimization. During stage one of the treatment program, clients presented situations in which they had perceived themselves to have been in the victim role. Each client analyzed her patterns of coping using the TFA Helping Cycle. The specific thoughts (T), feelings (F), and actions (A) experienced by participants were examined. Special attention was given to the cues that signaled perceptions of victimization. Processing through the Helping Cycle assisted clients in moving from an awareness of habitual patterns to problem solving alternative coping responses. In stage two, participants predicted situations that had the potential for eliciting perceptions of victimization. These situations were likewise examined in TFA terms. Applying TFA methods to understanding coping response behavior patterns in threatening situations allowed clients the opportunity to break the cycle of relying on habitual behavior patterns. Intervention techniques were individualized to both the client and her situation. The results of this study suggest that the TFA Systems™ model accurately assessed the coping response behavior patterns of clients in situations of perceived victimization. Participants were able to use effectively the Helping Cycle to examine the thoughts, feelings and actions that directed their behavior. Conscious awareness of existing patterns and knowledge of available options allowed clients to restructure ineffective coping responses. Both objective and subjective evaluation procedures confirmed the TFA Systems™ treatment model as a promising method for effecting positive behavior change in an adult survivors of incest population. / Ed. D.