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Helping the child talk about this experience About the trauma of sexual abuse is the first step to recovering from it. Before encouraging the child to talk however, it is important to first understand why they don’t talk about sexual abuse themselves, and what enables them to talk about it sometimes later.
When children finally do talk about abuse, it’s very important to handle it carefully. Rule # 1: Remember that the child is not at fault. Rule # 2: Make sure the child understands Rule # 1. Other rules in handling disclosure… · Keep calm · Believe the child · Listen to the child · Answer the child’s questions honestly · Respect the child’s privacy · Give positive messages: “I know you could not help it” or “I am proud of you for telling” · Report the abuse · Arrange a medical exam · Get professional help It is of utmost importance to keep open communication channels and have a good constant rapport with the child. DON'T
Remember, disclosure is difficult for children. It may be days, months, years or even never, for a victim to talk about sexual abuse. Be patient and supportive. |

