Eight Myths of Child Sexual Abuse

Many child sexual abuse cases go unreported because of myths and preconceived notions surrounding these horrific situations. Why should we learn about myths? Because, although it doesn’t undo what happened, it can help put a stop to future abuse.

At Greenstein & Milbauer, LLP, we are proud to give voice and support those who have been victimized by people they should have been able to trust. If you and your family have suffered abuse, contact us for help holding the abuser to account.

Myth 1: Abusers Are Usually Strangers

The majority of sexual abusers are close relatives or family friends. In 90 percent of cases, sexual abuse victims pointed to someone they knew as the responsible party. Below are a few common culprits:

• Relatives
• Priests
• Teachers
• Neighbors
• Daycare providers

Sexual Abuse Only Covers Unwanted Physical Contact

Sexual abuse is more than just physical touching. Child sexual abuse often includes grooming. This is a process in which the abuser manipulates the child into trusting and accepting inappropriate behavior.

Child Molesters Are Easy to Spot

Unfortunately, there’s no easy way to spot a sexual predator. These abusers could be anyone within your community, and there’s no easy way to identify them—despite how sinister they appear in movies and TV. Identifying abuse happens with pinpointing symptoms.

Children Will Always Speak Up

Traumatized children aren’t always willing to speak up. They may fear the abuser, or they may be worried that they’ll be accused of lying. Because of this, many children choose not to act.

That’s why it’s so important to see something and speak up. It could protect those around you in these cases.

Abused Children Always Show Physical Signs

Not every child will have signs such as bruises or bleeding. Child sexual abuse may cause more behavioral changes than physical ones. For example, the child may act in appropriate sexual ways, or they may fear going to bed on their own. If you notice any of these signs, you have grounds to notify someone about these changes.

Sexual Abuse Usually Occurs in Out-of-the-Way Places

Sexual abuse isn’t always committed in dark alleys or parks. Many children suffer this abuse in church, school, or their own homes. Any place where the child is alone with the abuser could be a place for abuse.

Child Abuse Only Happens in Dangerous Places

Although many people assume sexual abuse only happens in poverty-stricken, uneducated parts of the country, that’s far from the truth. Instead, child sexual abuse can happen anywhere, even in metropolitan areas like New York City. That’s why it’s so important to stay aware of the problem.

You Don’t Have Time to Act

Before, this myth may have been true. Child abuse claims had a short time limit, which left many people struggling to recover. However, new laws give you until you’re fifty-five to sue. If you or your child has suffered sexual abuse, you may have a chance to act now.

What You Can Do to Act

If any of these eight myths of child sexual abuse have opened your eyes about a situation close to you, it’s not too late to act. A highly experienced lawyer from Greenstein & Milbauer, LLP can help you seek compensation for your child sexual abuse claim.

To get started with a free consultation, call 1-800-VICTIM2 (842-8462) or complete the online form below.