by Tracey Lund

Created on: October 31, 2009

The effects of sexual abuse to children are devastating. The fact that these things often occur more often than anyone would like to admit is not only daunting, but should be eye opening as well. Children who are forced to do these unspeakable acts will have life long effects, starting from childhood and often rooting themselves into their adult lives as well.

As children, their self-esteem begins to crumble as the weight of such a needless burden weighs them down. They may not know who to trust, where to turn. The once affectionate little boy or girl suddenly shuts off like a thrown light switch. They no longer willingly give physical contact. Even something as simple as a hug becomes a formidable task. They suddenly are fearful to be left alone with adults, especially the gender that committed the crimes against them. Some children who have been repeatedly abused get to the point of acting out. They are under the impression that their behavior is normal and may unknowingly make other children around their age victims as well.

Many children who have a past involving sexual abuse never receive the help they need because they are too afraid or ashamed to speak out. Maybe they are afraid no one will believe them. Maybe they have to see the person who committed those acts on a regular basis. Whatever the reason for their silence, it affects the child as an adult more than they realize. The incidents are often shoved aside as nothing. They're over it, it doesn't matter any more. But all too often they have no idea why they keep getting into unhealthy relationships or why they have problems trusting others.

Some of the cases, especially women, become overtly promiscuous, thinking that is the right way to gain the affections of men. Other children become adults who are sexually passive or even fearful of the natural expression of consenting adults. Worse yet, some children grow up to become the predator, practicing what they were taught at such a young age.

The effects vary from child to child, depending on the other aspects of their upbringing and personality traits. The only thing that can not be doubted, no matter how intelligent, resilient or level-headed the child may be, it is always a traumatizing event. If you are an adult that knows a child in this situation, be sure to get them help as soon as possible. The less time the child has to bear the burden on his/her own, the better chance of the child being able to recuperate and be a normal, healthy adult.

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