Effect of Sexual Assault on Development
Sarah Snyder
Child Development Period 2
Issue at Hand
Explanation
- Every 98 seconds, an American is sexually assualted- every 8 minutes, a child is the victim
- 66% of victims of sexual assault are ages 12-17
- 55% of all sexual assault happens at or near the victims home
- 9 out of every 10 rape victims are women
- 1 out of every 6 American woman has been a victim of rape or attempted rape
Development of Child
Impact on Child
- Sexual abuse creates a feeling of shame in the victim
- Some victims are too young to know to seek help
- If untreated, can create a lifetime of PTSD, depression, and/or anxiety
- PTSD can be seen far into life as withdrawn behavior, avoiding events that trigger memories, and reenactment of the event
- Child could become hyper- sexualized or sexually reactive
Symptoms Later in Life
- Mistrust of adults
- Difficulty relating to others except in sexual ways
- Sleep problems or nightmares
- Neurotic reactions (obsessions, compulsions, phobias)
- Habit disorders (biting, rocking)
- Extreme fear of being touched
- Secretiveness or aggression
Symptoms
How is the population affected?
Argument
- 321,500 people are victims of rape or sexual assault in the US a year
- Sexual abuse, rape and molestation are "shame filled topics", the US culture tends to supress information about them
- This causes victims to be less likely to speak out about it, and the perpetrator will get away with it
What should be done?
Proposition
- Try to identify signs of sexual assault/ abuse earlier so it can be treated easier
- Create less shame with idea of sexual abuse
- If sexual abuse is suspected, act on it ASAP
- Trust what children are saying/ mentioning
Watch for Warning Signs
Preventative Measures
- Trauma to genital area: unexplained bleeding, bruising, or blood on sheets
- Not wanting to be left alonewith certain people (new behavior)
- Avoids removing clothing to bathe or change
- Nightmares or fear of being alone at night
Resources
- https://www.rainn.org - 24/7 Live Chat
- 800.656. HOPE (4673) -Sexual Assault Hotline
- Watch out for friends who might be going through something similar
Request