Responding to Sexual Abuse

Responding to Sexual Abuse

In the same way we learn emergency procedures like CPR, the knowledge of HOW to respond to a child reporting sexual abuse is important, EVEN if you think you will never need it (and we hope you do not!).

If a child comes to you saying they were sexually abused, listen to them and believe them.

First and foremost, children have no reason to lie about sexual abuse. With that being said, studies have shown that although younger children are often accurately able to recount what happened to them, it is not uncommon for them to struggle to accurately communicate who the perpetrator was.

Children who are listened to and believed display more resilience and are able to heal faster and make steady progress in treatment.  If a child's first attempt to reach out is met with scrutiny, disbelief, or anger they will likely internalize those reactions and feel that reaching out was not a safe option.

Rather than try to figure out the details, focus on your child's immediate needs, such as comfort and safety. This might seem obvious, but this can be very difficult when you have a wave of intense emotions overwhelming your thoughts.

If your response to their disclosure focuses more on the details of the event such as who the perpetrator was or where they were, the child will internalize that their needs are not as important. An interrogation-like response does not reassure the child that they are emotionally safe and only evokes more anxiety and fear.

Remember, your child is coming to you for help and it took a great deal of bravery and courage to do so. Acknowledge their bravery and thank them for sharing this experience with you.

Please refer to our articles on sexual abuse if you would like further information.