What Is Sexual Abuse? The sexual manipulation of a child by another, (usually an adult but possibly an adolescent). The abuser manipulates the child into inappropriate touching and sexual conduct. The abuser further manipulates the child into keeping the abuse quiet.
Myths About Sexual Abuse Myth 1. Only Strangers Molest Children.
FACT: The fact is, it is more likely the abuser will be someone you know or someone your child knows. The incest of a family member, the sexual abuse of a neighbor or family friend is the most common scenario.
Myth 2. Abuse Won't Happen To My Child.
FACT: Abuse can happen to your child and happens more frequently than you may imagine. Statistics show 38 million adults have been sexually abuse in which 27% are women and 16% men. That indicates one in every three women and one in every seven men were sexually abused as children. These are staggering figures. Much too high to believe so strongly that your child could never be abused.
Myth 3. It Is Not Sexual Abuse If It Is Not
Physical.
FACT: Sexual contact or overt sexual abuse is only one type. Covert sexual abuse is a non physical form of sexual abuse. Allowing a child to witness sexual acts is one good example of covert sexual abuse. I once heard a story about a father who walked around the house naked. Allowing his daughter to see him in this manner would fall into the category of covert sexual abuse.
Myth 4. You'll Get Over It
FACT: Sexual abuse is a very traumatic experience. It is not like a scrap on the knee. It will not go away with only a Band-Aid to heal it. Although, it is possible to heal from sexual abuse.
This site is all about the healing of sexual abuse. In the future I will be adding more pages of information about sexual abuse and healing. In the meantime, enjoy what is available to you. To the left are links to help you navigate this site. I hope this is helpful to you. And please come back.