Remember that you may be the only person in a position to help a child who is being sexually abused so you must contact the appropriate child protective agency any time sexual abuse is suspected. Parents can help protect children against sexual abuse. Parents can also observe their children when they interact with others to see if they are hesitant or particularly uncomfortable around a certain adult. Most importantly, children need to know that they can speak openly to a trusted adult and that they will be believed. Children who are victims of sexual abuse should always be reassured that they are not responsible for what has happened to them and they should not feel ashamed.
Sexual abuse is a problem that can affect all members of a community.
You can do your part in your community to help combat this pervasive problem. You ve taken the first step by educating yourself about sexual abuse. Make others aware of the problem, also, by arranging for knowledgeable guest speakers to give presentations about sexual abuse to groups you belong to. Encourage your local school board to put programs in place that will educate both teachers and students about the problem. Offer encouragement for victims by supporting organizations that help victims of incest or by simply reassuring a victim of sexual abuse that they should not feel shame or guilt about what has happened to them.