What Can I Do in Response to Clergy Sex Abuse?
According to studies conducted by the Crimes Against Children Research Center, 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 20 boys are victims of sexual abuse. 20% of female adults and between 5-10% of male adults say they experienced a sexual assault or sexual abuse as children.
28% of children in the U.S. between 14-17 years old have been victims of sexual abuse during their life. Children who’ve been victims of sexual abuse risk developing low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness.
If you suspect clergy sex abuse or know your child has been sexually assaulted, there are ways to help them. keep reading to learn more sexual harassment attorney kansas city.
Listening Is Crucial
If you learn of clergy abuse in your child’s life the most important thing is to hold the space for them to speak if they want to. Letting them know that you’re there to listen to whatever they want to share and express is crucial.
Whatever feelings your child may have are normal and holding the space for them to feel them can be a big step toward healing. You’ll also be feeling a lot of things, anger especially, but don’t let these feelings get in the way of your child’s process. Being a supportive figure is the best thing you can do.
Seek Counseling
Childhood sexual abuse can leave damaging effects on a child’s life, even into adulthood. As a parent, being a guiding presence can make your child feel safer.
Guiding them toward counseling is one of the best things you can do for them. While it’s important to speak to a professional who can help your child process their traumatic experiences, pushing them into it won’t help.
When your child feels ready to speak, looking for a counselor who specializes in processing abuse can make a world’s difference in their life. This is a healthy way to respond to abuse.
Speak to a Clergy Abuse Attorney
One of the most proactive ways to respond to clergy abuse is to speak to a clergy abuse lawyer. An attorney who specializes in these types of cases has the expertise necessary to guide you through the process of seeking justice.
Holding clergy who abuse accountable is one way for your child to gain some of their power back and can help them heal. Contact Mary Alexander & Associates to get the legal assistance you need. They’ll handle your case with the utmost respect for your family.
Continue to Get Educated
This process will be hard for you and your child but the best way to respond is to continue to educate yourself on ways to help your child heal. There are many great resources available on the effects of childhood sexual abuse and how parents can help in the recovery process.
What to Do After Clergy Sex Abuse
There are many ways you can respond to clergy sex abuse. Some important ways are seeking counseling and speaking to a lawyer who specializes in clergy abuse.
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