A typology of incestuous families based on cluster analysis

A typology of incestuous families based on cluster analysis

Data on abuse characteristics and family variables from 81 female adult incest survivors were subject to cluster analysis. Three clusters emerged: (1) women with the least severe abuse (as measured by type, duration, onset age, coercion, and number of perpetrators), with no severe physical family violence and the least family pathology with respect to cohesion, control, and conflict; (2) women with moderate abuse severity, more serious family problems, and families characterized by father dominance; and (3) a small group of women with severe and traumatic abuse, conflicted and controlling families, and extremely violent parents. Self-reported family variables and adjustment measures (dissociation and personality disorders) external to the cluster analysis differentiated the clusters and provided evidence of their validity. Implications for future research are discussed.

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General Psychology