In addition, girls between the ages 16 and 19 are four times more likely to be a victim of sexual violence. In 1995, a report released by the United States Department of Health and Human Services revealed that “local child protection service agencies identified 126,000 children who were victims of either substantiated or indicated sexual abuse” (RAINN); approximately 30 percent of these children were between the ages four and seven. Child sexual abuse is a traumatic experience that affects too many children. However, due to the graphic and sensitive nature of the subject, many myths have arisen about childhood assault. According to the New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service's Counselor Advocate Training Manual, these myths have created large misconceptions about victims and abusers.
Myth: Only Men Sexually Abuse Children
Not true. According to the New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service, this myth is due to men being reported more often as the perpetrator of child sexual assault. However, women can also sexually assault a child. The New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service points out that reports of female perpetrators are increasing.
Myth: Homosexuals are Most Likely to Assault Children
This myth is a harmful stereotype that results in intolerance. Most sexual abusers of children are heterosexual, according to the New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service. In addition, many male abusers have relationships with adult women.
Myth: the Child is being Seductive
Never true. According to the New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service, the abused child may learn to respond in a sexual manner to certain people or situations. The child does not invite a sexual advance from an adult, nor is the sexual assault the child's fault.
Myth: the Victim is Always a Girl
Just as women can be perpetrators of childhood sexual abuse, boys can also be victims of assault. Statistics provided by the New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service lists at least 20 percent of boys in the United States are sexually assaulted every year. The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network reports three percent of boys in the fifth to eighth grade and five percent of boys in the eighth to twelfth grade have been sexually abused. However, child sexual abuse with male victims is under reported due to social and cultural attitudes: boys are taught they have to be strong and cannot be victims.
Myth: Children are Not Good Witnesses
Untrue. Children have proven to be effective witnesses and provide accurate courtroom testimony in child sexual abuse cases, according to the New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service. In the state of Texas, the law allows for the videotaping of a child's statement to be used in court.
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