The purpose of this article is to sensitize clinicians working in
the field of childhood physical/sexual abuse to the connection between
untreated childhood traumatization and HIV high-risk behaviors. The
characteristic abuse symptoms of chronic depression, sexual
compulsivity, revictimization, and substance abuse are identified as
barriers to HIV education and intervention for survivors. An overview
of the existing HIV/child abuse connection research, an illustrative
case history and a discussion regarding the clinical implications of
these connections are offered.