Sexual abuse can cause substantial damage to children and permanently distort their ability to build healthy relationships based on trust. Families of victims may wish to provide support and participate in helping their loved ones recover.
When parents and guardians understand which behaviors will effectively encourage healing, they can confidently facilitate victims’ treatment. Children who have substantial support may have a better chance at overcoming their experience and living a healthy and happy life.
Respond with empathy
Caregivers may need to spend some time researching sexual abuse and its side effects to better understand how to respond. According to Childwelfare.gov, caregivers need to find a balance in how they respond to the effects of sexual abuse. Depending on the type of behavior children exhibit in response to having suffered sexual abuse, parents may consider the following strategies:
- Creating firm limits
- Prioritizing privacy
- Counseling with professionals
Caregivers who find a healthy balance in their response to can show empathy to their child. Children who feel heard, protected and valued can focus more energy on overcoming challenges and less energy on feeling misunderstood.
Stay engaged
Parents should vocalize their respect and admiration for their children for being brave enough to seek and accept help. Psychology Today suggests that parents should remain actively engaged in treatment as their children receive professional help. Families can attend counseling together and individually to identify the most effective ways to participate in their family member’s healing.
Even at the conclusion of a formal treatment plan, caregivers should continue to monitor their child’s behavior. They should maintain open communication and encourage their child to continue work with a professional therapist as he or she works through recurring emotions and reestablishes confidence.
