Myths and misconceptions about child sexual abuse are common. It’s important to understand the reality of this abuse so we can help to prevent it. By understanding what is myth and what is fact, we can create safer communities for children and young people, and reduce shame and stigma for victims and survivors. Sometimes it’s hard to know what is true and what is not. People often believe things just because they hear them a lot. But when it comes to keeping children safe, we need to know the facts. Here are some common myths about child abuse and the truth behind them.1,2
| Myth: Only physical abuse is serious | All types of abuse can hurt a child deeply, even if you cannot see it on the outside |
| Fact: All types of abuse are serious | |
| Myth: Abuse ruins a child’s whole life | Abuse is very serious, but it does not have to ruin a child’s life |
| Fact: Children can heal with support | |
| Myth: You can always tell a child is being abused | Some children show signs, but many do not; A child may look “fine,” but still be hurting |
| Fact: It’s not always easy to see child abuse | |
| Myth: Abuse only happens in poor families | Abuse does not depend on geography, race or net worth… it can happen in any family |
| Fact: Abuse can happen anywhere | |
| Myth: Children lie about abuse | Children may feel scared or confused when they talk about abuse, but rarely lie |
| Fact: Children rarely lie about being hurt | |
| Myth: Strangers are the biggest danger | Many people teach kids to watch out for strangers, but it rarely is a stranger |
| Fact: Abuse is often done by someone known | |
| Myth: Sexual abuse is the most common type | Neglect is a child lacking basic needs like food, safety, or love |
| Fact: Neglect is the most common form of abuse | |
| Myth: All abusers are mentally ill | Abusers are not all mentally ill and can be caused by many different things |
| Fact: There is no single “type” of abuser | |
| Myth: Young children won’t remember abuse | Even very young children can be hurt by abuse and the effects can last into adulthood |
| Fact: Abuse can affect children at any age | |
| Myth: Child abuse is rare | Many abuse cases are never reported; it is a serious problem we must not ignore |
| Fact: It happens more often than people think | |
| Myth: Children cause their own abuse | A child never deserves to be hurt; adults are responsible for keeping children safe |
| Fact: Abuse is never a child’s fault |
Everyone can help protect children by listening when a child talks to you, taking concerns seriously, speaking up if something feels wrong and supporting families and safe communities. Keeping children safe is something we all share. When we know the truth, we can make a real difference. If you are interested in becoming an Advocate for the Innocent member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/.
1 – https://endcan.org/2021/02/15/11-myths-about-child-abuse/
2 – https://www.centracare.com/articles-stories/10-common-myths-about-child-abuse/
3 – Image rawpixel.com on Magnific