Why sexual abuse survivors are reluctant to come forward

Many sexual abuse survivors are reluctant to come forward; it sometimes takes decades, and a majority never do. This can make successful trials difficult because the evidence is often long buried. With more and more cases of adults taking on their abusers, why do survivors of sexual abuse stay silent, especially when the heinous crimes of child sexual abuse, sexual assault, and molestation are condemned by our legal system? 

Statistics—Child Sexual Abuse Survivors

The number of reported child sexual abuse cases is on the rise across the globe. Yet, sadly, the number of reported cases is estimated to be a mere 20% or less of total child sexual abuse cases.

Child sexual abuse is not limited to a particular group; no economic status, race, or gender is immune to experiencing childhood sexual abuse. However, statistics show that patterns emerge when the abuse risk increases. For example, females are five times more at risk for abuse than males, and foster kids are ten times more likely to be targeted by predators than children not in the foster system.

Why Do Sexual Assault Victims Stay Silent?

There are reasons why sexual assault and molestation cases go unreported, and if they are, often it’s decades later. 

• The abuser is a family member.
• The child is dependent on them to supply basic needs.
• The abuser has threatened the child.
• The child feels a sense of guilt or embarrassment.

Understanding Predators, Taboos, and Institutional Trust

1. Predators Target Quiet Children

Sexual predators often groom their victims, meticulously planning whom they will target and how. Most predators will play it safe and target children less likely to talk. Children with obvious vulnerabilities, isolated, insecure, or quiet are prime targets. Therefore, the child’s increased introversion may go unnoticed.

2. Lack of Sex Education or Consent Education

While it may be viewed as inappropriate to talk with young children about sexuality before puberty, the fact that the topic is somehow taboo can silence survivors. If the child believes it is wrong or inappropriate to discuss what is happening to them, they will be less likely to come forward. Abusers know this and capitalize on it.

3. Damage to Institutional Trust

The third and often most damaging is a survivor’s inability to trust. Children look up to adults for guidance in all things. Adults should be the experts and the people who teach and bring comfort. Unfortunately, many abusers are close to the targeted child’s family, holding positions of power where predators gain access to children:  trusted clergy members, family friends, immediate relatives, and even one or both parents. The resulting damage to a child’s trust in these adults makes it harder to come forward. Why would a child trust a teacher or a lawyer if they couldn’t trust their family?

This damage is also one of the most significant strains on victims later in life, damaging their ability to build lasting relationships.

How Can You Help?

Dealing with the fallout of child sexual abuse is a painful process. Keep a close eye on the children in your lives for signs of abuse that can help prevent these heinous acts. Learn how to report child abuse so you can contact authorities immediately.

In the meantime, if you or a loved one are attempting to confront a childhood abuser, we are here to help. Find justice and peace of mind with our experienced help. Attorney Steve Boyd has worked with survivors in many cases. He is a strong advocate for the rights of survivors and is committed to fighting for you. Contact our office today to confidentially discuss your situation. We will provide you with a free case review.