BACKGROUND:

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is associated with an increased risk of subsequent psychiatric disorders.

AIMS:

To explore the risk associated with features of CSA and examine whether specific associations exist between particular profiles of CSA and the development of specific syndromes.

METHOD:

In a population-based sample of adult female twins, we used logistic regression to explore the association between features of CSA (reported by the twin and her co-twin) and lifetime major depression, generalised anxiety disorder, bulimia nervosa, panic disorder and alcohol and drug dependence.

RESULTS:

In univariate and stepwise multiple regressions, patterns of predictors differed, although not significantly, across diagnoses. Greater risk was associated with attempted or completed intercourse, the use of force or threats, abuse by a relative, and a negative response by someone who was told about the abuse. Similar patterns were observed with co-twin reports.

CONCLUSIONS:

Specific features of CSA differentially increase risk of later psychopathology; however, there do not appear to be unique predictive relationships between features of CSA and the emergence of specific psychiatric disorders.