There is no doubt that loving support is key to helping a child heal from sexual abuse or overcome a sexual behavior problem. But sometimes we can feel loving without knowing what loving steps we can take to help our children. As a parent or caretaker, here are some loving actions you can take to...
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The law indicates who can consent to sex and who cannot. The law recognizes that children are developmentally not able to make decisions about some things, including when to engage in sexual behaviors. Laws vary by state, but a common age of consent is 16. Engaging in sexual behaviors with someone...
We already know how difficult it is for children to talk about experiencing sexual harm or abuse, whether by an adult or by another child. When sexually abusive behavior occurs online, some children may not even realize they are being abused or exploited; and those who do still may not tell anyone...
Feeling caught in a loyalty bind If you’re the non-offending parent of a child who has been abused by a sibling or by the other parent, you can find yourself caught in a painful bind. As a loving parent, you want to do everything in your power to protect the abused child, keep them safe, comfort...
There are many possibilities for what might cause inappropriate sexual behavior of a child to another. People are often surprised to learn that, in fact, over a third of all sexual abuse of children is committed by someone under the age of 18 who usually is a family member. Children may engage in...
Kids can be sexually harmed and abused by other kids People are often surprised to learn that, in fact, over a third of all sexual abuse of children is committed by someone under the age of 18. Most of us are clear that sexual behaviors between adults and children are illegal and harmful. It can be...
Yes. There is a range of help for children whose sexual behaviors are concerning. The most important thing is to act, and act quickly. There are a lot of reasons why a child may be acting out sexually, and a therapist who specializes in children’s sexual behaviors will address all aspects of a...
Not all inappropriate sexual behavior indicates a significant problem. Not all children who show sexually concerning behavior have an established sexual behavior problem requiring ongoing professional attention. For some kids there may have been a one-time lapse in judgment. Some young children act...
Children and teens who abuse are not just smaller versions of adults who abuse.
Can a child be charged criminally for sexual behavior? Children can be legally charged for criminal sexual conduct. The laws in each state vary, and depending on the severity of the activity, the behavior could fall under the legal definitions of abuse and a child could be charged. If you are...
Can a child be charged criminally for sexual behavior? Children can be legally charged for criminal sexual conduct. The laws in each state vary, but in some cases children can be charged criminally for sexual behaviors with other children. Depending on the severity of the activity, the behavior...
No, most children who have been sexually abused do NOT go on to sexually abuse children Just as there is no such thing as a typical “sexual abuser” there is no such thing as a typical “victim.” How children process the experience of having been sexually abused varies widely and depends on many...
Intervening early is key It is crucial to address concerns for youth at-risk to sexually abuse, especially as they approach an age at which they can be held legally accountable for their actions. The stakes only get higher if you wait. Act now. Some things to keep in mind when talking to a child or...
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When trying to understand what your child is going through, the most important thing is to realize just how complicated it is for children to talk about the abuse. There are many reasons children are reluctant or unable to tell about sexual abuse. Here are some important things to remember about a...
It’s hard to believe Although it is sometimes hard to believe that someone we know or love is capable of sexually harming a child, we must remember that children rarely lie about sexual abuse. It is highly unlikely that a child would deliberately make false accusations about adult-like sexual...
Intervening now is key It is crucial to address sexually harmful behaviors in youth promptly, especially as they approach an age at which they can be held legally accountable for their actions. The stakes only get higher if you wait. Act now. Some things to keep in mind when talking to a child or...
You are not alone. Help is available. If you are in crisis and need help immediately, please consult one of the following toll-free national hotlines or contact your local police or emergency services. All hotlines are free. Resources: Childhelp (1.800.4ACHILD) Provides 24/7 assistance in 170...
It's important for parents and other adults to provide children who have been sexually abused with the support and resources they need to heal and recover. The sexual abuse of a child can be devastating for both the child and the family, but help is available for both. Children are resilient and...
You can help a child who has sexual behavior problems. If you know a child and youth who demonstrates sexual behavior problems, you can help them to learn new healthy and safe behaviors. It's important for parents and other caregiving adults to act promptly to address a young person's sexual...
Anyone whose life has been affected by child sexual abuse usually finds themselves seeking professional counseling for their child, for their self or for someone else they care about. If you are in that position now, you know that sometimes it can be confusing and overwhelming when beginning to...
As a parent, finding out that your child has been sexually abused is often the worst experience you’ll have. It’s understandable that any parent whose child has been harmed will go through many of their own difficult feelings. One of the primary ways to help your child heal and recover is to...
When you have a question regarding your child's legal rights or you are struggling in an ongoing legal situation pertaining to your child's safety, it's important to have access to reliable legal and advocacy resources. Resources: Victim Connect (National Center for Victims of Crime) Directory...
Social media and the internet offer kids many opportunities for education, entertainment and connection. It has become a part of our everyday lives and a necessary component in many ways, even for young children. It goes beyond the computer, accessible through mobile devices, gaming platforms and...