Scientific studies have shown that individuals first exposed to
criminal victimization as children or in adolescence have
significantly lower life-course income as compared to those not
exposed to such victimization until later in life, probably because
their educational and occupational attainment is
reduced.1 Plaintiffs who
have suffered sexual abuse, especially where the incident of abuse
occurred at a young age, will likely experience diminished ability
to work steadily. Their working life will likely be disrupted by
persistent psychological difficulties caused or exacerbated by the
abuse, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trust issues,
anxiety, panic attacks, social isolation, relationship difficulties
and educational difficulties.
