An evocative autoethnography of child sexual abuse and identity reconstruction

Child sexual abuse is a serious crime that causes long-term harm to victims/survivors; however, the instances of abuse often go silent because of social stigma, fear and shame, while its non-disclosure intensifies the impact and guilt. This study uses an evocative autoethnographic approach, drawing on personal memories of my childhood sexual abuse and the resilience that emerged through the struggle through three phases: Unspoken abuse, the Inner struggle and the Reconstruction of self. Here I discuss about the abuse that I faced from trusted people and the fear, tension, anger and avoidance that defined my childhood. Over time, Resilience has reflected and sculpted me into who I am, guiding me toward a profession in social work to work with children who have gone through similar struggles as I did. The study emphasises how crucial self-expression, empathy, and advocacy in rebuilding one’s power and illuminating paths of healing for others.