Sexual abuse is a hard topic for anyone to talk about, yet, it is important to be informed in order to be as preventative as possible. The definition of sexual abuse as defined by Pat’s Place, a child-advocacy center in Charlotte, North Carolina, as any unwanted sexual contact imposted by another. Here are some facts to be aware of regarding childhood sexual abuse.
1. 1 out of 10 people are sexually abused before the age of 18.
This is a hard statistic for anyone to hear. There are several ways that a child can be sexually abused. Childhood sexual abuse encompasses more than physical contact, it also includes child pornography and indecent exposure. This statistic comes from the organization Darkness to Light.
2. 90% of people who were abused knew their abuser.
While many parents teach their children at an early age to not trust strangers, most parents are not aware of the need to educate their kids about appropriate boundaries expected from family friends. According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, 60% of children are abused by someone they trusted, like a coach, church member, family friend, or family member.
3. Children who have been sexually abused are more vulnerable to sexual exploration.
Children are often left feeling confused, violated, and empty after experiencing sexual abuse. These feelings could cultivate a curiosity and desire to regain their control in a way that leads them to engage in sexual acts. If not placed in therapeutic care, sexually abused children are vulnerable to sexually abusing another when older. It is very important that children receive professional help after sexualized trauma in order to help them process what happened, teach them about healthy relationships and boundaries, and repair their emotional damage.
4. Children are more vulnerable to abuse when alone with an adult or older child
Sexual abuse often happens when people are alone (one-on-one) with one another person. To help prevent sexual abuse when your child is not with you, pair your child with a friend that you and the child are comfortable with. While you may not be able to monitor them at all times, there are some measures you can take to ensure they are paired with a peer.
April is Childhood Sexual Abuse awareness month. We hope that you have found this information to be informative and helpful. We understand that it is not easy to talk about or hear about it, but the first step to preventing abuse is being aware of the facts. If you need someone to talk to or are concerned of anyone being abused, please call our office at, 704-912-4095 or one of the resources below. You are not alone, our therapists are here to help.
Resources
Mecklenburg 24 hour Rape Crisis Hotline 704-375-9900
Mecklenburg Domestic Violence Hotline 704-712-0110
National Assault Hotline 800-656-4673