How to Help a Sexually Abused Child
Everywhere, parents hear or read messages pertaining to child sexual abuse. These messages also usually include a warning that this crime can happen anywhere - on the Internet, in school and even in the child's home. But reality is, a lot of parents don't know the right way to talk to their kids whom they may suspect to be victims of sexual abuse.
If you fear that you child might be in this situation, make sure you talk to him directly. Pick a good time and place. The most crucial issue here is whether or not your child is comfortable. And never attempt to ask your child while the suspected offender is around.
In your conversation, ask if he has felt that someone has been making physical contact with him in a wrong or uncomfortable kind of way. Because sexual abuse can actually feel good to a victim, asking your child if someone has hurt him will not get you the information and details you're looking for. Then mention the incident that caused you to be concerned. Whatever the incident is, ask your troubled teen about it. However, make sure that you ask in a nonjudgmental manner, and be careful not to shame your child as you ask your questions. He has to understand that he's in no trouble and that you simply want him to tell you more.
One technique you can use with children is exploring into the topic of secrets. Abusers are known to tell their victims to keep things secret, and to even make these kids promise.
Trust is the most important thing that you need from your child. He should understand that it's totally fine for him to talk to you about something or someone who may be making him uncomfortable. Always keep your word. If you tell him you'll be there for him, be there for him.
All kids should know that they can always say no to people who are making them uncomfortable, whether or not there is physical contact. Make it known to your child that you will not be angry or mad if he does so. Kids tend to think that telling people not to touch them is wrong. Remind them that specific areas of their body are very private, and that they must keep away from someone who tries to show them their private parts. More importantly, they should know that they have to tell a trusted adult as soon as they can.
It is important that parents try to hone their sensitivity to signs of child sexual abuse, such as social withdrawal, inappropriate interest in sexual matters, and the like. The earlier the abuse is detected, the more effective therapy will be and the less damage the child has to endure. Learn more facts about child abuse here at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Child_abuse.
If you fear that you child might be in this situation, make sure you talk to him directly. Pick a good time and place. The most crucial issue here is whether or not your child is comfortable. And never attempt to ask your child while the suspected offender is around.
In your conversation, ask if he has felt that someone has been making physical contact with him in a wrong or uncomfortable kind of way. Because sexual abuse can actually feel good to a victim, asking your child if someone has hurt him will not get you the information and details you're looking for. Then mention the incident that caused you to be concerned. Whatever the incident is, ask your troubled teen about it. However, make sure that you ask in a nonjudgmental manner, and be careful not to shame your child as you ask your questions. He has to understand that he's in no trouble and that you simply want him to tell you more.
One technique you can use with children is exploring into the topic of secrets. Abusers are known to tell their victims to keep things secret, and to even make these kids promise.
Trust is the most important thing that you need from your child. He should understand that it's totally fine for him to talk to you about something or someone who may be making him uncomfortable. Always keep your word. If you tell him you'll be there for him, be there for him.
All kids should know that they can always say no to people who are making them uncomfortable, whether or not there is physical contact. Make it known to your child that you will not be angry or mad if he does so. Kids tend to think that telling people not to touch them is wrong. Remind them that specific areas of their body are very private, and that they must keep away from someone who tries to show them their private parts. More importantly, they should know that they have to tell a trusted adult as soon as they can.
It is important that parents try to hone their sensitivity to signs of child sexual abuse, such as social withdrawal, inappropriate interest in sexual matters, and the like. The earlier the abuse is detected, the more effective therapy will be and the less damage the child has to endure. Learn more facts about child abuse here at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Child_abuse.