SAFELINE

Information for adult survivors
of childhood sexual abuse

The Extent of Child Sexual Abuse

It is estimated that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused. In more than three quarters of cases the abuse is committed by an adult the child knows and trusts. The vast majority of abusers are men but women are also capable of sexual abuse.

Child Sexual Abuse is any type of sexual assault of a child under 16. Sexual abuse takes many forms: explicit sexual talk; showing pornography; sexual touching; lack of privacy to bath or undress; masturbation and sexual intercourse.

Why Do Children Stay Silent?

Children may not speak out while the abuse is going on for many reasons :-

1. They may have been threatened with further abuse and violence if they tell.
2. They may well be afraid that no-one would believe them.
3. They may feel entirely to blame for the abuse.
4. They may not be able to describe or understand what has happened to them.
5. They may want to protect the family or even the abuser(s), who could be either male or female.

Children often feel powerless to stop the abuse. You cannot be responsible for consenting to an act you did not understand or which you were forced into.

The Abuser is Always to Blame for the Abuse

No matter how long ago you were abused, your feelings about what happened to you are important. You have the right to be listened to, no matter what you want to say. Through speaking about your abuse, you may well be able to overcome any difficulties that you experienced as an adult.

By Being Sexually Abused as a Child, the Adult Survivor May Lose:

• Self confidence, esteem and self respect.
• The ability to feel good about self.
• Hope, freedom and dignity.
• Physical and mental health.
• The ability to trust people.
• The ability to relax and enjoy life.
• Their childhood.

Adult Survivors May Cope with the Past Abuse by:

• Alcohol and drug abuse.
• Obsessive behavior and strict routines.
• Self harming e.g. cutting, scratching or burning.
• Forgetting or minimizing the abuse.
• Turning to God/Religion.
• Breaking ties with, or confronting, the abuser.
• Speaking about it and receiving support.
• Fighting back e.g. speaking publicly or helping other survivors.
• Working to protect children from abuse.
• Writing about abuse.

Who Can I Speak To?

A lot of survivors feel the need to speak to someone about the effects the abuse has had on their lives. Your feelings are as individual as you are. No two survivors will feel exactly the same. Talking to someone can help the healing process. If you want to talk, contact us at Safeline. We're here to help.

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