Angel Abuse

What Parents Should Know

Every child is vulnerable to sexual abuse regardless of cultural background or income level.
Children need to feel loved, valued, and protected.
Children are best protected by giving them the knowledge and skills necessary for their safety and well-being.
Often there are no physical signs of sexual abuse.
Many cases of child sexual abuse go unreported because the child is afraid or ashamed to tell anyone what has happened.
The offender may have threatened to hurt a family member, or the child feels that s/he is to blame for the abuse.
It is important to show interest in your child's activities; let her/him know that you are available to talk and listen; allow your child to share thoughts and feelings with you.
The child is never to blame for the abuse; children cannot prevent abuse, only the offender can.
Studies suggest that personal safety rules can be taught and understood by children age 3 and up.
There is little evidence that children make false allegations of abuse; what is more common is a child denying that abuse happened when it did.

Ways to Support an Abused Child

Believe your child.
Reassure your child that her or his safety is important.
Assure your child that she/he is not to blame for the abuse.
Remember that how you respond to your child is critical to his or her ability to deal with the trauma of the abuse.
Get your child medical help

Possible Signs of Abuse

excessive clinging or crying
sleep disturbances, nightmares
fear of particular adults or places
bedwetting
problems with school (refusal to attend or a drop in grades)
depression; withdrawal from family and friends
alcohol or drug use
change in eating habits
frequent touching of private parts
unexplained bleeding, pain, irritation of mouth or private parts
any unexplained change in behavior or development of new behaviors

Personal Safety Rules to Teach your child

The difference between safe and unsafe touches; what is appropriate physical affection.
The proper names for all their private parts; many children are not able to tell about the abuse because they don't know the words to use.
Safety rules apply to all adults; not just strangers.
Their bodies belong to them and it is not okay for another person to touch their private parts.
It is okay to say no if someone tries to touch their body or do things that make them feel uncomfortable; no matter who the person is
They should not keep secrets about touching, no matter what the person says; if someone touches them, tell and keep telling until someone listens!

The single most hurtful comment that relatives frequently make to older victims of childhood sexual abuse is: "Gee, it happened such a long time ago, just get over it."

<:Stories:>

<:Poetry:>

<:Help:>

<:Links:>