Published Oct. 7, 2005
More myths, facts about child abuse
The myths surrounding child abuse can cloud judgment when a case of abuse occurs. By checking our thinking about these myths we can be more alert in recognizing abusive situations and help the child who is being victimized.
Child sexual abuse happens only in poor families.
Incest and child sexual abuse can happen in any family, regardless of income, religion or ethnicity.
Most children who are sexually abused do something that causes the abuse.
Children do not cause the abuse. It is never their fault. Often they are taught sexualized behavior by the perpetrator, but this behavior does not cause the abuse. The responsibility for the abuse lies with the adult, not the child.
Sexual abuse generally occurs outside the home.
Most children are sexually abused inside their home or the home of someone their family trusts. Many perpetrators have the trust of the family or are part of the family and have easy access to the home and the child.
Child sexual abuse is physically violent.
Child sexual abuse is emotionally violent because the perpetrator uses emotional manipulation and coercion to control the victim. Abusers are such skilled manipulators that they rarely have to use physical force to get the child to submit to them.
A child should be encouraged to forget the abuse.
Child sexual abuse is a traumatic event that can lead to behavioral, psychological and emotional problems. A child should be encouraged and allowed to talk about the abuse. If the abuse is not dealt with, there can be severe long-term consequences.
Sexual abuse is generally a one-time incident.
Most abuse occurs numerous times over a period of years. Also, most perpetrators have a number of victims, especially if there is more than one child in the family.
Most perpetrators are homosexual and sex-starved.
Most perpetrators, male and female, are heterosexual with partners and a regular sex life.