Any sexual contact between a child and a trusted individual that damages the child, whether covert or overt, whether flirtation or sexual intercourse, needs to be dealt with assertively. It scars virtually all facets of the victim's life, since she is left with little or no self-esteem.

The Effects of Child Sexual Abuse on an Adult Survivor

Source: Survivors of Incest Anonymous, Inc.

Any sexual contact between a child and a trusted individual that damages the child, whether covert or overt, whether flirtation or sexual intercourse, needs to be dealt with assertively. It scars virtually all facets of the victim's life, since she is left with little or no self-esteem.

At least one out of five boys and one out of four girls will be abused before they reach the age of 18. The child’s emotional growth will be stifled at the age of the first attack, and the victim will probably not begin to recover until adulthood, if ever.

Boys as well as girls can be victims of sexual abuse. Anyone can be an abuser, especially if he is perceived by the child to be someone in authority, including a brother, uncle, friend of the family, aunt or teacher -- the list is endless. However, for the sake of clarity, we will refer to the victim as a girl and the abuser as her father.



Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/13941-sexual-abuse-and-incest/#ixzz1LG00KVG3