Finding out your child has been sexually abused will be devastating, and there will be many conversations going on in your head; the why’s, how did it happen, when, with who, am I a bad parent for not protecting my child, and so it goes on. It would be very easy to fire all of your questions at once to your child. But I suggest you take a moment and reflect on this. Your child needs you, not your pain and anger. I would always advise a caring arm, and consideration to your child. Children sharing such difficult news will be feeling very scared, it will be a moment in their life that has taken some time for them to get to. There will be a bucket load of emotions from you both. Times like this need empathy, listening ears and team-work and also ‘believing’ your child. I see time and time again families fall apart over this, and it really shouldn’t be this way. Ask gentle questions, show you are there and that you will do anything you can to support them through this.
*if you feel like you need support (which I think is a good idea) then seek out a professional who can help guide you through this painful time.