Generally, children are sexually abused by adults who are related to them or known by them or their families. Looking at a number of retrospective surveys, results have indicated that no more than 10% to 30% of the offenders were strangers. In sexual abuse cases committed against females, approximately one third to one-half of all perpetrators were related to the victim. Only about one-tenth of the abusers were related to their male victims. Acquaintance perpetrators are the most common abusers, constituting approximately 70-90% of all reported perpetrators. In addition, males are reported to be the abusers in 80% to 95% of cases. Perpetrators of sexual abuse are not only adults. Many clinical settings currently are witnessing a dramatic increase in the number of adolescent offenders who have committed sexually aggressive acts against other children.
What types of children are more likely to experience sexual abuse? Sexual abuse occurs among all groups of the population. It happens to children in both rural and urban areas and in all socioeconomic and educational levels, and across all racial and cultural groups. Statistics indicate that girls are more frequently the victims of sexual abuse, but the number of boy victims is significant. Estimates suggest that males account for 25% to 35% of child sexual abuse victims. Research has found that the absence of a parent from the home increases the child's risk. In addition, interviews with perpetrators suggest that they look for vulnerable children. Such children are young and appear to be isolated, depressed, or lonely.
What are some of the signs of sexual abuse? Symptoms of sexual abuse may include physical and behavioral signs as well as indirect comments made by the child. There are several clues to look for when considering the possibility of child sexual abuse. A physical sign may be irritation, pain, or injury to the genital area. A behavioral sign may be nervous, aggressive, hostile, or disruptive behavior towards adults, especially parents. But remember, one sign alone may not be a positive indication. If a number of signs are present, it is wise to consider the possibility of sexual abuse. Sorce: National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse
What are the effects of sexual abuse? The degree of harm a child experiences as a result of sexual abuse depends upon the nature of the act, the age of the child, and the child's general environment. Physical harm may include cuts, disfigurement, deformity, and pregnancy. Mental harm may consist of feelings of pain, panic, devastation, betrayal, shame, fear, guilt, and vulnerability that may persist throughout the victim's life. While child sexual abuse may not always lead to permanent injury, one should assume that all sexual abuse experiences are harmful. Also, it is important to reassure the child that he or she is not responsible for the assault.
