Child abuse - a social taboo, which many pretend does not exist. However, even scarier and deadly, when your own child keeps silent about it.
What has this world come to? Where is it heading? Taking away the innocence of children out of desperation is disgusting to the core!
It is needless to say, how drastically child abuse effects children's development and psychological behaviors. They end up in a mental state if the issue is left unresolved. Life becomes a pattern of continuous crisis for those who are unable to get over childhood sexual abuse issues.
We as parents have the sole responsibilities upon our children's well-being. If we are not there to listen to them how can we even expect them to share anything with us. Our behavior with our children greatly determines the kind of relationship we have with them. When children are not encouraged to express their thoughts and concerns, their likes and dislikes, opinions and ideas then the purpose of a family is useless.
Creating awareness in our children from an early age about sex education is a basic precautionary step. Building their trust regarding anything and everything that goes on in their lives can help in developing healthy relationships. This will not only encourage them to be open about their feelings but also assure them of the support they expect when anything happens to them. They will automatically speak up of any odd behavior or gesture being made to them by any adult - within family or outside. Children often express their feelings by displaying rather than telling.
What Can We Do?
Do not leave children who are unable to communicate clearly or at all in the care of house help.
Talk to your children about good touch and bad touch.
If your child is uncomfortable around any person, do not force them to be with them
Children need to know they have autonomy over their bodies; nobody should have the right to force affection.
If your child confides in you, always listen and let them know you believe them and they can approach you for anything.
Know that a sexual predator can be anyone; they do not have to look like a monster to act like one.
As a parent, we must have that observant eye to recognize what our children are trying to tell us. Noticing any odd behavior, or signs such as sudden fear of visiting certain places or people, any physical signs on body, displaying anger or disturbed patterns of eating and sleeping; presence of several of these signs at a time is alarming. Immediate action must be taken to resolve the matter at the earliest possible time. It is always better to be safe than sorry!