Sexual Abuse: Vulnerabilities And Prevention
Our youth are experiencing sexual abuse more and more. This is a harsh reality to accept, but many reports indicate anywhere from 1 in 7 children are sexually abused by their 18th birthday. Children who are sexually abused are extremely at risk of being exploited after their abuse.
What is sexual abuse?
It is hard to define sexual abuse in today’s world because of what is normalized. The increase in technology has made it even harder because people have access to others’ lives and vulnerable individuals often end up in the wrong situation without even realizing it. Sexual abuse refers to sexual molestation and/or sexual harassment either in person or online.
What’s even more difficult to accept is how hard it has become for youth to name their experiences as sexual abuse because so much of it has been normalized. Sexting for example is now considered a normal way of communication amongst youth yet this is considered sexual abuse. When a child sends or receives an intimate photo, that is also sexual abuse. If a video is uploaded or shared online of a child performing any kind of sexual act, that is sexual abuse.
A very high percentage of children who are trafficked experience sexual abuse as a child. There is a pattern. To stop this cycle, we must first address and prevent child sexual abuse and its vulnerabilities which include family structure. This is the most important risk factor in child sexual abuse. Children who live with two married biological parents are at a lower risk for abuse than children who live with stepparents or a single parent.
What can we do?
Everyone has a responsibility to learn about vulnerabilities and prevention of sexual abuse. Parents, caregivers, and community members need to have their hearts and eyes open to understand the dynamics in their community. Families that have vulnerabilities need to be supported, cared for and given the chance to build healthy relationships. We can also understand the signs of sexual abuse and be educated on what this means and what it looks like. We need to talk about this issue to stop it from happening.
Parents
The more you know, the better you will be able to detect signs that are concerning and report them. Parents must set boundaries for their children regarding what they can and cannot do online. Vulnerable children should not have unlimited access to social media which can be very toxic and damaging. Parents can also set boundaries for sleepovers with friends and have conversations with their kids about the importance of setting boundaries. If your child feels uncomfortable when a certain adult is around, address the issue right away.
Teenagers
As for teenagers, they have a lot to deal with in today’s world. School and home responsibilities can take a toll on teens and their mental health. Teenagers are encouraged to identify a trusted adult in their life they can turn to if they experience any form of abuse. Educators can be a safe person for the youth in their classroom. Teachers must be attentive to scenarios and dynamics to detect any situation that is concerning.
Need to know more? Reach out to Collaborative Community Solutions
Sexual exploitation is a very real and serious issue. Collaborative Community Solutions offers helpful tools and services to educate people regarding human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and trauma. Contact us today to learn more.
