Child Sexual Abuse
by: Kidscope, Inc.
What is child sexual abuse?
It can be non-physical (exposing him/herself to the child, obscene phone calls, peeping toms); physical, (genital, oral stimulation fondling or sexual intercourse); or violent (rape, treats of or use of a weapon, or other physical abuse during sexual abuse). Sexual abuse can include pornography (showing or having a child participate in sexual photos or videos). Sexual activity with anyone - boys or girls - under 16 years of age is child sexual abuse.
Who sexually abuses children?
The abuser can be anyone - male, female, young or old, a stranger, a family member or an acquaintance. When the abuser is a family member, the abuse is often called incest. If the abuser is a stranger, it may only happen once to a particular child, but there will be many such child victims. If the abuser is familiar, the abuse may start with touching and progress to more overt acts and may continue over a long period of time; especially if no one stops it.
Why do abusers do this?
There are many reasons, sometimes very complex ones. Generally it is a result of emotional or psychological problems. The person may have been sexually abused at some time; it may be from poor impulse control, a desire for "power over" or it may be an inappropriate response to unusual stress.
What are the effects of sexual abuse?
A single, minor incident such as indecent exposure or fondling may result in the child being embarrassed, confused, afraid, and angry or feeling guilty or anxious for a short time. She or he may also be distrustful of adults. More severe situations may lead to severe emotional and behavioral problems—withdrawal, aggression, school problems, running away, nightmares, depression, extreme anxiety, distrust or early sexual activity. The child may also suffer physically—cuts, bruises, venereal disease, or pregnancy. Child sexual abuse is a profound betrayal of the child. It takes away their innocence and childhood forever. It sexualizes them far too early and in a very destructive way.
What can anyone do?
If your child or a child you know says they have been abused—believe them. Call the police, Human Services or Kidscope. Give the child emotional support. Get medical assistance. Take the child to the nearest emergency medical facility. Be sure the doctor knows the appropriate procedure for child sexual abuse victims.
Teach children "good touch, bad touch". Make sure your child feels free to tell you anything. Tell children their bodies are private and not to be shared with anyone. Let them know they should always tell about any incident that makes them feel bad or uncomfortable. Get counseling for the child and family members.
The best action is to prevent child sexual abuse by educating yourself and your children. If the unthinkable happens, get help right away. And help bring the abuser to justice. Sexual abuse should not happen to any child.
Kidscope, Inc.
2 A-B Kongens Gade
St. Thomas, USVI 00802
340-714-1012
kidscope@viaccess.net
This project is supported by Grant #VA104-KS98, awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The Assistant Attorney General Office of Justice Programs, coordinates the activities of the following program offices and bureaus: Bureau of Justice Assistance, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Institute of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, and the Office for Victims of Crime. Points of view or opinions contained within this document are those of the author do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.
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