Although child sexual abuse is a fairly taboo topic in our society, there is increasingly more awareness about this situation. The figures currently available regarding the number of victims are alarming. 20% of the child population, that is, 1 in 5 infants has suffered, is suffering or will suffer some type of sexual abuse.
Precisely for this reason,** we must do everything on our part to try to prevent this type of situation**. It is true that we cannot control all aspects and that there will be situations that are out of our hands as parents, teachers, guardians, etc. However, as shocking and painful as it may be for some people, it is necessary to do as much prevention as possible.
Throughout this article we will talk about what is, or what is considered, child sexual abuse. Next, we will talk about different key points to prevention of abuse such as education, communication, supervision, support and management of social networks. Finally, we will also address the main warning signs so that we can act as soon as possible if necessary.
It is considered child sexual abuse, also known as CSA by its acronym, any activity of a sexual nature carried out with children by adults or minors who are older and more powerful (with more “authority”) than the victim. The repertoire of activities that are considered abusive are broad and diverse.
On the one hand, we could highlight those in which there is direct contact, such as inappropriate caresses or kisses, penetration, oral and/or anal sex and, ultimately, any type of behavior in which there is physical contact with a sexual intention on the part of the abuser.
On the other hand, we must take into account also all those behaviors that do not involve direct physical contact, but that do cause harm to the victim. These may include actions such as exposing the minor to pornographic material or involving him or her in some way, spying on the boy or girl in private situations, exhibitionism, etc.
It is important to keep in mind that in these types of situations there is a clear power imbalance. In fact, on some occasions physical force or threats are used. In most of them there is a pattern of manipulation and deception by the perpetrator towards the victim.
Another truly alarming fact that we cannot ignore is the fact that 85% of cases of child sexual abuse occur within the family environment. That is to say, the abuser is a reference figure in whom she trusts and whom she loves. Hence the importance of integrating the warning signs well in order to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.
Homeschooling based on open communication
There are certain topics that, as a result of having been taboo for many decades, can be somewhat complex for some parents and guardians to address. However, it is crucial that we talk with infants about the parts that make up their bodies and help them give real and appropriate names for each of those parts.
That boys and girls can name the parts of their body will make it easier for them to explain more precisely what they have experienced if necessary. For this to happen, it is essential that at the family level an environment based on trust and free of judgment is created where communication is open and the child feels safe to share his/her experiences.
Another essential aspect is to work on limits with our children. It is important that they understand that they have the right to say “no” if something makes them uncomfortable and, of course, help them understand that there are certain parts of their body that no one should touch because they are private.
It is essential to explain that mom or dad touches certain parts just to clean them, but that other people cannot do that. In this sense, also It is important that we respect the moments when they do not want to kiss or hug certain people, for example.
An essential aspect at this point is the fact of avoiding secrets. If from home they understand that there are no secrets because they can talk about the things that happen to them and worry them freely, it will be easier for them to raise the alarm if someone tries to keep certain dynamics a secret.
Supervision and support
Although we cannot—nor should we—control all aspects of our infants’ lives, it is important that there is some supervision and support in their daily lives. We don’t want to deprive them of opportunities to experience and explore the world, but we do want to lay the foundation for them to do so in the safest way possible.
In this sense, it is interesting to invest time in getting to know the people who are part of our child’s close environment and spend time with him/her. Furthermore, it is favorable for the bond that we are interested in his friends and ties.
A strategy that can be really useful to use with slightly older children is the implementation of a keyword that is only known at the family level. This “sign” can be used at certain times when the child is feeling uncomfortable and wants his/her parents to pick him/her up.
Management of social networks
Since we live in the digital age, it is essential that we accompany our sons and daughters. Therefore, we must explain to them what risks and dangers they may encounter on social networks. In addition, it is crucial that rules and limits are established for the use of electronic devices and social networks.
Warning signs
Being a victim of sexual abuse has a strong impact on the people who suffer it. Below are some of the main warning signs that can be observed in infants:
