PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN FROM SEXUAL ABUSE..

Sexual abuse can happen to children of any race, socioeconomic group, religion or culture. There is no certain way to protect children from sexual abuse, however there are certain steps that can be taken to minimize the risk. It is important to know that if your child is sexually abused, it's the perpetrator to blame and not you or your child.  Listed below is five steps that can be taken to help protect your children from this type of abuse.

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STEP 1 LEARN THE FACTS

The facts about child sexual abuse can be staggering, but they can help us understand the risk children face

STEP 2 MINIMIZE OPPORTUNITY

If you eliminate opportunities for children to be isolated in one-on-one situations, you can dramatically reduce the risk of abuse.

STEP 3 TALK ABOUT IT

Children often keep abuse a secret, but talking openly about our bodies, sex, and boundaries can encourage children to share. By talking openly they become less vulnerable to people who would violate their boundaries. Be proactive, if a child seems uncomfortable, or resistant to being with a particular adult, ask why.

STEP 4 RECOGNIZE SIGNS

Don't expect obvious signs when a child is being abused, signs are often there, but you have to know what to look for. Physical signs of sexual abuse are not common, although redness/swelling in the genital area, or urinary track infections should be investigated. Emotional signs are common, for e.g withdrawal an depression along with unexplained anger and rebellion. Sexual behaviour and language that are not age appropriate can be red flags also.

STEP 5 REACT RESPONSIBLY

Be prepared to react responsibly if a child discloses abuse to you, or if you suspect or see that boundaries have been violated. Please don't overreact, when you react with anger or disbelief, the child often feel even more guilty and ashamed. This causes the child to sit down and even retract the story or change it to match your questions. This is dangers since the story will tend to appear "coached" and could be very harmful if it goes to court.

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