10 death of a parent. The façade can hold no longer, and the underlying fragmentation becomes manifest. When and if a breakdown occurs it can do so in symptomatic forms that mimic virtually every category of psychiatric disorder.’ [13] Taking cognizance of the views expressed by these writers, supplemented by her own professional experience, Ms Fredman testified that only when a survivor of child sexual abuse is capable of realising that he or she is not responsible for his or her damaged condition, can it be expected that steps will be initiated to redress the injustice done. Before that, deeply-embedded psychological restraints must be overcome. [14] In short, the expert evidence demonstrates that (1) chronic child abuse is sui generis in the sequelae that flow from it; (2) distancing of the victim from reality and transference of responsibility by the victim on to himself or herself are known psychological consequences; (3) in the absence of some cathartic experience, such consequences can and often do persist into middle age despite the cessation of the abuse during childhood. [15] The questions that call for an answer in this appeal are: (a) Does the applicable prescription statute accommodate a victim who manifests such sequelae, by either staying or suspending the running of prescription, if the victim is prevented or seriously inhibited by reason of his or her psychological condition from instituting action?