Why Do Children not Tell?
Why would kids not tell anyone they are being abused?
Children often feel a sense of guilt over the abuse, and they may also experience self-destructive thoughts or a loss of trust or self-esteem. Some of these signs may not even be obvious until the child becomes an adult. At first, they may deny that anything has happened when asked, or they will not tell the whole story the first time.
It is extremely difficult for children to report abuse! Disclosure is a process, not an event!
Remember: Child sexual abuse can happen to any child in any community. If the parent's reaction to the child is disbelief, the child may wonder if their feelings are mistaken. Children do not want to cause problems for their parents and will not tell about abuse thinking they are "protecting" their mom and dad. Also, they fear that telling will make people angry at them.
Tell the child “I believe you”
Learn the 10 reasons why children do not tell which includes how to teach your kids safety lessons.
