Step 1: Learn the Facts
If we don’t understand child sexual abuse, we can’t end it. It is highly likely that you know a child who has been or is being abused.
Step 2: Minimize Opportunity
Safe environments can help reduce the risk for abuse. More than 80% of sexual abuse cases occur in isolated, one-on-one situations.
Step 3: Talk About It
Talking openly breaks down barriers and reduces stigma. By talking openly about our bodies, sex, & boundaries we can encourage children to share.
Step 4: Recognize the Signs
Signs of abuse aren’t always obvious, but they are often there. Emotional or behavioral changes are often the most common signs.
Step 5: React Responsibly
It’s our responsibility to react appropriately to suspicion, disclosure, or discovery of abuse. Only 4% to 8% of reports of all sexual abuse are false.
Resources for Talking To Older Youth & Teens:
- Discussing Sensitive Topics
- Connect with Me Activity Cards from DHSS
- D2L Pre-Teens & Teens Conversation Guide
- THORN’s research on SG-CSAM
- NoFiltr Campaign on Youth Safety Online
- Dating Matters from Veto Violence (FREE)
- Safe Dates Program Through Department of Justice (TEENS)
Resources for Older Youth & Teens To use:
- Take It Down helps remove online sexually explicit photos and videos taken before you were 18
- What’s OK? (whatsok.org) | A resource for youth and teens for answers to their questions
- NoFiltr Campaign on Youth Safety Online
- Love is Respect | Empowering young people to maintain healthy relationships and mitigate intimate partner violence
- AMAZE.org | An online library of videos and resources for parents, youth and kids about a range of sexual health and relationship topics.
Prevention Consultants of Missouri 