child sexual abuse myths

Описание: There are several myths that parents can have about Child Sexual Abuse (CSA):

MYTH 1: I should teach my kids about good touch and bad touch

FACT: Instead of good and bad, use terms safe and unsafe touch.

Good and bad imply moral judgment, which can be conflicting for kids as even inappropriate touching might not feel 'bad' to the child. 'Bad touch' also makes the child feel guilty or ashamed to disclose the abuse.

In teaching your child about CSA, remember to emphasize that no one should touch them in any area covered by a bathing suit.

MYTH 2: I cant talk to child about CSA because I dont want them to know about sex

FACT: Talking about CSA in an age-appropriate way is one of the BEST ways to prevent sexual abuse.

You can teach them personal safety without talking about sex. These safety conversations should be ongoing, as kids often need repetition in order to learn.

MYTH 3: Talking about 'stranger danger' is the best way to prevent abuse.

FACT: In the vast majority of sexual abuse cases, the offender was known (and very often trusted by) the victim’s family. Sexual predators invest incredible amounts of energy into creating a persona of a trustworthy person in order to have access to children. Abductions and abuse by strangers represent a very small percentage of sexual abuse in children.

When was the last time you had the safety conversation with your child?

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