ABC's of Abuse

I originally wrote these simple ABC's of abuse for my book. I wanted to share them with you as a reminder if you do encounter a situation with abuse.

-A-
Accept that it is possible that your child has experienced abuse.
Allow time to ask questions and don't pressure them for information.
Always show love and acceptance so the child doesn't feel ashamed.

-B-
Believe the child. Young children are innocent.
Be ready for a flood of emotions. Stay calm and handle yourself responsibly.
Better to know the truth--truth will set your child free.

-C-
Contact proper authorities. Abuse must be exposed and confronted.
Consider the consequences of not reporting the incident.
Challenge yourself it takes courage to stand against corruption.

One survey showed fewer than 30% of parents will take proactive steps to protect their children from sexual abuse.

In more than 90% of sexual abuse cases the child knows the abuser.
In nearly 40% of child sexual abuse cases they are sexually abused by older or larger children they know.

1 in 4 girls are sexually abused before the age of 18.
1 in 6 boys are sexually abused before the age of 18.

In you are in need of more information, I have found some excellent resources:

www.stopitnow.org
www.darknesstolight.org
www.bravehearts.org.au