Get Informed
SEXUAL ABUSE refers to any action that forces, pressures, or coerces someone to do something sexually they don’t or wouldn’t otherwise want to do. It can also refer to any action that impacts a person’s ability to control their sexual activity or the circumstances in which sexual activity occurs.
Furthermore, any sexual activity involving a minor (18 years of age in most states) is sexual abuse.
Quick Facts
MOST victims of sexual abuse know their perpetrator.
Ages 12-34 are the highest risk years for sexual abuse.
Very few cases (5-20%) of sexual abuse and assault are actually reported.
Both men and women can be victims as well as perpetrators of sexual abuse.
Girls Are Sexually Abused Before Age 18
Boys Are Sexually Abused Before Age 18
Every 107 Seconds Another Sexual Assault Occurs
Victims of Sexual Abuse Are
Times More Likely to Suffer from Depression
Times More Likely to Abuse Alcohol
Times More Likely to Abuse Drugs
Times More Likely to Suffer from PTSD
According to World Health Organization, 2002
Be Part of the Solution to Sexual Abuse
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Resources
What Is Sexual Abuse?
Definitions and examples of sexual abuse and sexual assault.
Talking to Your Kids
Important home strategies to protect your family.
What to Do...
…if you or someone you loved has been sexually assaulted, or if you suspect sexual abuse.
National Hotline
RAINN’s 24/7 National Hotline
Call 800.656.HOPE (4673) to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area.
RAINN
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
Connections to countless resources, statistics, aftercare, and prevention information.
Legal
If you, your child, or a child you know was sexually abused while under the care of a public or private institution, Estey and Bomberger may be able to help hold those entities accountable for money damages.
Sexual abuse crimes are among the most horrific in nature because of the IMMEDIATE transfer of guilt from the predator to the victim.
In an instant the victim is struck with:
Fear of what will happen to them if they stand up to their abuser
Feelings of disgust for themselves because they didn’t say anything to stop it
Fear of not being believed if they report the abuse/assault
Feeling they asked for it or they willingly participated because they didn’t stop their abuser
Fear of what will happen to them if they tell anyone
Feelings of being too small or that they don’t matter and no one will be able to help them
Fear of retaliation from their abuser
Feeling ashamed and responsible even though it was absolutely not their fault
There is Hope
Sexual abuse is not where your story has to end. Don’t delay in getting the healing and support you deserve.
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