Child Sexual Abuse or Sexual Violence is any sexual act that committed against a person’s will. The sexual act can include rape, verbal sexual harassment, threats of sexual violence, unwanted touching, exhibitionism, unwanted exposure to pornography, taking nude pictures of a person without their consent or knowledge, attempts at a sex act and non-contact sexual behavior.
Parents need to talk to their kids about sexual abuse and it needs to start early. Do not wait. All discussions with your children need to be age appropriate; pre-teen, early teen and late teen. Sexual abuse is never acceptable.
There are many forms of sexual abuse:
Verbal – inappropriate and abusive words and language
Visual – showing pornographic pictures; taking nude photos; exhibitionism
Touch – inappropriate touching
Sexual abuse often happens in stages: verbal, touch and then actual sexual relations. Kids need to be aware of sexual abuse information in ways that are appropriate to their age.
In Part 2, we will address showing pornographic material. In Part 1, we discussed abusive words and language and in Part 3, we will talk about inappropriate touching.
Pornographic material can include: pictures, video, internet websites, taking nude photos, or exposing private parts of the body to pre-teens, early teens or teenagers. This is not acceptable behavior between an adult and a child or between children.
An adult will use sexually explicit material of children in the grooming process to desensitize or normalize child sexual activity as a means to physical sexual abuse a child. A groomer will also move toward taking pictures of a child nude.
Exploring sexuality is a normal part of maturing and growing up. The guidance of a parent is needed in teaching what is and is not appropriate. Showing child pornographic material to a child or taking nude pictures of a child is not acceptable.
Our society is more open about sex and nudity than ever before. Sexting, the sending of sexually explicit messages, pictures and/or video between cell phones is very popular.
Be informed. There are many signs of sexual abuse.
It is important to explain the dangers, risks and consequences of sexual abuse, child pornography and sexting with your pre-teen and teenager. Communication is the key. Teach your kids to come to you when they think something is wrong. Be open and accepting to listen to what your kids have to say.
If you suspect sexual abuse, do not hesitate to reach out or help. You and your child are not alone. There is treatment available to help your child, you and your family.
Reference
http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/sexualviolence/definitions.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sexting
