Coming forward about sexual abuse can be a daunting decision. Many survivors wrestle with shame, fear and uncertainty about the legal process alone. One common question people ask when they are thinking about coming forward is this: Is there a deadline to file a case?...
Childhood Sex Abuse
Supporting your child as they speak up about sexual abuse
Studies show that, globally, childhood sexual abuse (CSA) happens to one in four girls and one in thirteen boys before they reach the age of 18. However, this number might be an underestimate of reality. Researchers also noted that only about 25% of CSA survivors talk...
The effects of childhood sexual abuse can appear later in life
Victims of childhood sexual abuse may attempt to repress their memories and bury them deep into their subconscious as a defense mechanism. However, the adverse effects of such profound trauma often surface in unexpected ways at some point in the child’s life. It could...
Steps to take if your child has experienced sexual abuse
Discovering that your child may have experienced sexual abuse causes distress and alarm. You can protect their safety and well-being with immediate assistance. Understanding the appropriate actions to take can guide healing when your child suffers sexual abuse. Stay...
Preventing childhood sexual abuse through education and awareness
Childhood should be a time of innocence, growth and exploration. However, many children face the devastating impact of sexual abuse. Parents and citizens should focus on sexual abuse prevention through education and awareness. Understanding the signs Nearly half of...
What does unresolved childhood trauma look like in adults?
Navigating life's challenges can be particularly tough for children who experience traumatic events. As a result, the human mind may repress or ignore such distressing incidents as a defense mechanism. This coping technique could shield a person momentarily but harm...
5 key pieces of evidence needed in a child’s sexual abuse claim
Parents facing the harrowing task of proving their child's sexual abuse claims often find themselves navigating a complex and emotionally charged legal landscape. To build a compelling case, it is important to gather a range of evidence that can strengthen their...
Responding to disclosures of child sexual abuse
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in four girls and one in 13 boys will experience some form of sexual abuse before the age of 18. As a parent, learning that your child has experienced abuse can be overwhelming and...
3 sudden changes in your child that may indicate sexual abuse
Children and teens are in tricky stages of life, constantly developing and evolving as they grow. As a result, it is not uncommon for them to undergo many changes as they discover themselves. However, not all changes are benign, normal steps in the growing process....
What to do if you suspect your former spouse is abusing your child
With divorce rates as high as 2.3 for every 1000 people in the United States, it is common for divorced parents to share physical custody of their children. Whatever their custody arrangement is, the time that divorced parents spend with their children is often alone....