Published Sept. 23, 2005

Myths and facts about child sexual abuse

There are myths that obscure the facts surrounding child sexual abuse. Knowing the difference between myth and fact can help us recognize and deal with abuse more effectively. Below is a list of common myths along with the fact that the myth distorts.

MYTH: Children make up stories or lie about abuse.

FACT: Children seldom lie about sexual abuse. Children do not usually have explicit knowledge of intimate sexual behavior unless they have been exposed to it. Children who exhibit sex play or knowledge beyond their developmental level may be victims who are using nonverbal ways to tell what has happened to them.

MYTH: Abuse is most often committed by strangers.

FACT: In 80 percent of cases, sexual abuse is committed by someone that the child knows and trusts. This can be a family member, family friend, babysitter, etc.

MYTH: The child is at fault for encouraging or allowing the sexual abuse to happen or to continue.

FACT: A child is never responsible for the behavior of an adult. Adults are responsible for their own behavior and responsible for the abuse. Children are taught to obey adults and not to question the actions of adults, especially those in care-taking roles. The child often feels powerless and unable to stop the abuse.

MYTH: Children are sexually abused because their parents/caretakers fail to care for or supervise them properly.

FACT: The offender often has a close relationship with the family and is trusted to be around the child safely. The abuser might even be a family member.

MYTH: Child sexual abuse happens rarely.

FACT: Statistics show that one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the age of 18. These numbers are based on reported cases of abuse. Many cases go unreported because the children do not tell anyone about the situation.

The above information is from STAR (Standing Together Against Rape). STAR provides valuable information and services for both child and adult victims of abuse. STAR can be reached at (907) 276-7273. STAR also maintains a 24-hour confidential crisis line at 1-800-478-8999.