Sexual abuse means using a person for sexual pleasure without their permission or consent. When a child has sexual intercourse with a parent, a brother, a sister, or even a stepparent, the abuse is called Incest. Girls are more likely to be abused than boys, and most sexual abuse is committed by men. One out of every four girls and one out of every seven boys may be sexually abused before they reach the age of eighteen.
The abusers may threaten to hurt the victim or someone that the victim loves. Or the parent, which is the abuser may threaten to go away and never comeback if the victim tells what has happened. He or she may say that the victim will be taken away if anyone learns about the abuse. They promise something special, like money or new clothes. Often sexual abuse starts with a game, such as tickling or grabbing or even make believe. Then, one day, the game becomes... sexual.
Openness from victims of sexual abuse is a great way to counsel them from their fear and isolation. Victims of abuse feel isolated from other people. They may feel ashamed about what has happened. They may think that they are not worth much and have feelings of low self esteem. They may feel so angry that they intentionally hurt another being or pet. They may even try to hurt themselves. They will become sad or withdraw into depression. They begin not to trust others or they may try to avoid sex altogether.
Parents or guardians are the key to the victim to become better, so that they will not suffer for many years. But not all children suffer long-term effects.
Other Sexual Abuse Links that may prove Useful
http://freenet.msp.mn.us/~kaplan/sexualabuse.htm