Originally Posted by
paulokes 
Interesting idea, I know of at least one person for who that would fit...changed their first name quite late in life.
My brother also changed from James to Jim around 17/18. I couldnt testify to any sexual abuse but life was unpleasant.
This is interesting:
Why I changed my baby's name | Life and style | The Guardian
Perhaps changing a name is a way of creating a new identity, or leaving one behind?
P
I went to high school with someone who, as an adult, made a similar change, going to a different variation of his name. His wife did tell me it had to do with his father and family dysfunction.
I do agree with the changing identity.