Fact
Children can respond physically to stimulation (get an erection) even in traumatic or painful sexual situations. A sex offender can maintain secrecy by labeling the child's sexual response as an indication of his or her willingness to participate. (e.g., "You liked it"; "You wanted it.") The survivor is then manipulated with their own guilt and shame because they experienced physical arousal while being abused. Physical, visual, or auditory stimulation is likely to occur in a sexual situation. It does not mean the child wanted the experience or understood what it meant.http://www.womensweb.ca/violence/incest/myths.phpChild sexual abuse/incest
Common myths about child sexual abuse and incest
By Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD
Unless and until, society focuses on sexual child abuse prevention, before the damage is done, sexual abuse of children will continue to proliferate. Child sexual abuse is the greatest hidden epidemic in the world.
ReplyDeleteAbout the Author:
Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD, author of If I'd Only Known... Sexual Abuse in or out of the Family: A Guide to Prevention specializes in mind-body-spirit healing and physical/sexual abuse prevention and recovery. As an inspirational leader and holistic healer, Dr. Neddermeyer empowers people to view life's challenges as an opportunity for personal/professional growth and spiritual awakening