Myth When a child is sexually abused, it is immediately apparent

Fact

In cases of incest against children, as much as the sex offender might be hurting the victim, the child loves her abuser and needs her family. Therefore, she convinces herself that she is somehow causing her abuser to behave this way, and she remains silent. In her confusion of loyalty to her sex offender, she protects him or her by holding the secret. Thus, she carries the shame and guilt. In cases regarding sexual abuse and incest, the victim often believes that she has cooperated with the sex offender in some way and places inappropriate blame on herself. Therefore, although with tremendous suffering, she hides her pain through denial, dissociation, numbing, zoning out, hyperactivity, as well as other distracting behaviors. However, the aware parent would recognize these behaviors as a sign that something is wrong.

http://www.womensweb.ca/violence/incest/myths.php

About 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.

Child sexual abuse/incest

Common myths about child sexual abuse and incest

By Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD