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                                                                              Child sexual abuse.

CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE (CSA) occurs when an adult uses his or her power or authority to force or persuade a child to take part in sexual activities. A child is never in a position to make a valid choice about appropriate sexual acts. Sexual abuse may range from fondling or petting to full vaginal or anal intercourse. It may include kissing, oral sex and/or non-penetrative “dry sex”. It may be a single incident or event or may occur over a number of years. It may include being forced to pose for photographs and/or watch pornographic movies.

Long Term Effects and Indicators.

·        lack of trust in self and others. 

·        lack of self-esteem/respect. 

·        guilt. 

·        depression. 

·        inability to cope with life ( work, home, relationships) 

·        eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and obesity. 

·        difficulties in sexual relationships. 

·        suicide attempts/suicidal feelings. 

·        alcoholism and drug abuse. 

·        self-mutilation, slashing, burning. 

·        sleep disturbances such as nightmares and dreams. 

·        flashbacks. 

·        psychosomatic disorders. 

·        feelings of being different, misfit or alienated. 

·        pregnancy (to escape from home). 

·        abusive relationships / abusive partners. 

·        running away from home. 

·        inability to set boundaries / say no.

Myths about Incest / Child Sexual Abuse.

·        Children are usually molested by strangers. 

·        Incest is a rare occurrence. 

·        Incest only happens in lower class and rural families. 

·        Only young girls are victims of Incest and Child Sexual Abuse. 

·        Children lie about Sexual Abuse. 

·        Children are seductive and want it, or cause it. 

·        Incest only happens once or twice involving a single child. 

·        Women offend as often as men. 

·        It’s better not to talk about Incest – the child will forget. 

·        Sexual Abuse is non-violent, therefore it is non-damaging. 

·        Abusers are psychotic or retarded.