Get the Facts
|Based on research it is estimated that 1 in 10 children are sexually abused before their 18th birthday. Most children who are victims of sexual abuse are known by and trust their abuser.
Definition of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA):
Child sexual abuse can be contact, non-contact, or sexual exploitation:
Contact: Forcing, coercing, or persuading a child to engage in any type of sexual act or sexual contact
Non-Contact: Acts such as exhibitionism, exposure to pornography, voyeurism, or communicating in a sexual manner by phone or internet
Commercial sexual exploitation: Where sexual activity involves a child and something of value is given or promised
Reduce the Risks:
- Avoid one-on-one contacts: adults meeting with a child one-on-one in isolated areas
- Avoid private meeting places: meeting in hidden & secluded areas
- Observe interactions: ensure interactions between adult and child can be observed & unexpectedly interrupted
- Monitor internet use and texting: know who your child is texting and who is texting your child
- Learn more about prevention strategies