In the event of a disclosure, please remember that the caregiver’s reaction will play a large part in how the child will cope with and heal from the abuse.
In most circumstances, children do not lie about sexual abuse. The most harmful reaction would be for the parent to express doubt or disbelief of a child’s disclosure.
Allow your child to talk at his or her own pace. Forcing information can be harmful. Silencing will not help him or her to forget. In addition, avoid having conversations, or phone calls, about what happened in front of your child.
Avoid questions such as, “Why didn’t you tell the first time this happened?”; “Why didn’t you say no, fight back or run away?”; and, “Why did you go back over there after it happened?”
If you suspect a child has been the victim of abuse, or witnessed a violent crime, contact your local Police Department, Sheriff’s Office, Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) or, in the event of an emergency, call 911.
Louisiana DCFS (if the offender lives with or cares for the child): (855) 4LA-KIDS
Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office Personal Violence Unit: (504) 364-5362
In a perfect world, all children would grow up in safe and nurturing homes free of abuse. Until then, you can make a difference in the life of a child.
