Why Does Childhood Sexual Abuse Go Unreported?

Trust Plays a Role in Child Sexual Abuse Reporting

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, child sexual abuse is a significant health problem. Roughly 1 in 4 girls and 1 in every 13 boys in the United States have experienced sexual abuse at some point in their childhood. Sadly, most of these heinous acts are carried out by someone the child trusts, such as a family member or friend. One of the main consistencies in child sexual abuse cases is that the abuser is often in a position of trust to the child. Read on to learn why many cases of childhood sexual abuse do not get reported.

Manipulation and Threats by the Abuser

Child sexual abuse survivors are subjected to manipulation and threats by the abuser to coax them into keeping the abuse a secret. When the abuser knows the victim or the victim’s family, they may be reluctant to speak up about the abuse to their parents or siblings for fear that the abuser will carry out their threats, that their parents won’t believe them, or that the abuse is their fault.

Read More: Warning Signs of Child Sexual Abuse

Organizations and Abuse Cover-Up

Unfortunately, many cases of abuse are carried out under the guise of organizations that anyone would ever expect such acts to take place. For example, the Catholic Church in recent years has been outed about its history of concealing clergy members who participate in childhood sexual abuse. Many religious organizations and other entities, such as Boy Scouts, and the Boys & Girls Club of America, have been named in sexual abuse claims. When organizations work hard to cover up sexual abuse that is happening on their watch, it can deter survivors from coming forward.

Sexual Abuse Survivors Have The Right to Seek Justice

Survivors of childhood sexual abuse have a higher risk of developing depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, drug addiction, and many other mental health problems. You deserve to be heard, and we believe you.

If you are unsure where to turn for help, we are here to bring your perpetrator to justice and hold the institutions that allowed the abuse to continue accountable for their heinous actions. The Zalkin Law Firm, P.C. is here to give you the support and help you deserve when going through a challenging time.

Contact us today at (800) 477-2989 to learn your rights.