Adolescents with a history of sexual abuse in childhood are more prevalent to experience social and emotional problems, delinquency and crime, which often times stems from substance abuse. The other adverse effects are academic problems, teen pregnancy, sexual behavior and over sexualized behavior problems. Unfortunately, adult survivors are also more likely to become involved in crime, becoming a perpetrator themselves.
There are many health-related issues associated to survivors of sexual abuse in childhood. Adult survivors are more likely to utilize the health care system more than adults without a history of sexual abuse in childhood.
The associated costs include:
The health and social impacts of child sexual abuse on a survivor last a lifetime and affect us all socially and financially. The average lifetime cost per victim of child abuse is $210,012*, costing the U.S. billions annually.
The costs include:
Every child deserves to grow up in a world free from harm. By joining the movement, you become a voice for the voiceless, a protector of innocence, and a champion for change. Together, we can educate, empower, and take action to safeguard our children—one child, one family, and one community at a time. Stand with us. Speak up. Be the change.
Of minors who discussed coronavirus-related concerns, 67% identified their perpetrator as a family member and 79% said they were living with that perpetrator. “Many minors are now quarantined at home with their abuser. Meanwhile, these kids are cut off from their safety net ― the teachers, coaches, and friends’ parents who are most likely to notice and report suspected abuse,” Berkowitz explained. “As a result, abuse reports to many state authorities have declined — not because there is less abuse taking place, but because children have less contact with adults outside the home who could potentially spot and report abuse. Sadly, it is likely that the risk of children being sexually abused will increase as shelter-in-place orders continue — one more tragic consequence of the public health crisis the country currently faces.”
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