About Sexual Abuse, Part 1

Austin has had a terrible case of sexual abuse in the news lately. One result of this is that a lot of parents are asking important questions about sexual abuse. This post is part 1 of 2 that provides basic information about sexual abuse. Of course, this is no substitute for the counsel of a professional. If you have questions or concerns, please contact a professional. In Texas, you can call the Statewide Child Abuse Reporting Hotline and make a report or get more information anonymously: 1-800-252-5400. So here's some basic information for parents about sexual abuse.

• Sexual abuse is a term that encompasses a very wide range of behaviors. We tend to imagine the violent/stranger/kidnapping scenario, but the vast majority of abuse doesn’t look like that. 90% of abusers are known to the child. (ie, family member, child-friend, adult family-friend.)
• Sexual abuse is frighteningly common. 1 in 4 girls, 1 in 6 boys.
• Children can be abused by another child. (3 years older is generally considered abusive.)
• Children don't always tell anyone about what's happened. (telling is called making an "outcry.") Perhaps they are embarrassed, ashamed, afraid because the perpetrator threatened them or their loved ones, afraid they'll get in trouble, or confused.
• Sometimes children wait for weeks, months, or years before they tell anyone.
• Sometimes children try to tell us and we don't realize it. Or don't know what to do. Or don't believe them. (This is why it's important to call a professional.)
  
• Sexual abuse can happen 1 time, regularly for years, and everything in between.

If a child makes an outcry to you:

• Listen carefully.
• Assure your child's immediate safety.
• Remember that in Texas, every citizen is required by law to report suspected child abuse.
• Professionals like teachers, social workers, and nurses, etc, are required to report within 48 hours, and face serious penalties for failing to do so.
• You can call the reporting hotline 24/7. Law enforcement can also be called.
• Not sure if it's abuse? Call the reporting hotline anyway. You can ask questions and/or make a report anonymously. 1-800-252-5400.
• Act.
• Don't delay.

Sexual abusers thrive on secrets, embarrassment, fear, awkwardness, and shame. Don't let them!