Conversations about sexual assault can be a part of the safety conversations you’re already having, like knowing when to speak up, how to take care of friends, and listening to your gut.
There is no foolproof way to protect children from sexual abuse, but there are steps you can take to reduce this risk.
If you suspect or know that your child has acted inappropriately or hurt another child, it is imperative that you take steps to ensure the safety of others.
When a perpetrator intentionally harms a minor physically, psychologically, sexually, or by acts of neglect, the crime is known as child abuse.
Jannina's recovery from sexual assault has inspired her to become a nurse so she can support other survivors.
Shikema and Iris discuss their runaway experiences and recovery from sexual abuse
For many survivors of sexual assault, talking with others and telling the story about what happened can be a crucial first step of the healing process.
Men and boys who have been sexually assaulted or abused may also face some additional challenges because of social attitudes and stereotypes about men and masculinity.
Many perpetrators of sexual abuse are in a position of trust or responsible for the child’s care, such as a family member, teacher, clergy member, coach, or other children such as older siblings.
It’s not always easy to know what to say when someone tells you they’ve been sexually assaulted, especially if they are a friend or family member.
When Keith Wheeler was just 11 years old, he was molested at the hands of his music teacher. Keith never told his family and as he grew older, he turned to marijuana and alcohol to cope. “I wanted — no, needed — to block out the pain,” he explains.
Every 9 minutes, government authorities respond to another report of child sexual abuse. Learning the warning signs of child sexual abuse is often the first step to protecting a child who is in danger.
If you are concerned that a child is a victim of abuse, you may not be sure what to do or how to respond.
It’s important to find a way to manage your feelings, so you can focus on creating a safe environment for your child that is free from harm, judgment, and blame.
There is no normal or "right" way to react when you find out that someone you care about has survived an act of sexual violence. Regardless of what you’re feeling, these emotions can be intense and difficult to deal with.
All survivors of sexual violence, children and mothers alike, should be able to live without fear of future harm.