Lurking within the shadows of society, are men and women who prey on children. Satisfying their sordid desires by snatching away the innocence of the unsuspecting.
Who are these men and women? Are they the strangers we so often warn our youngsters about? Or does the danger lay closer to home?
“Abuse is happening, and a lot is not being reported,” claims Farieda Mia of Newcastle Child Welfare.
While sexual abuse going unnoticed is a scary thought, Mia says there is an increase in cases involving minors raping or molesting other minors. Where minors are the perpetrators, they too are often the victims of abuse and have lashed out in an unhealthy way.
As disturbing as children raping children is, there are older predators who target children. “When looking at children being abused, the perpetrator is usually someone they know. We always teach our children about Stranger Danger, but this is not always the case,” Mia explains.
Perpetrators can be family members or close friends. People who have manipulated their ways into an individual’s life to gain access to their intended prey.
How do paedophiles gain a child’s trust? Mia says sex offenders often try to form an emotional bond with their intended victims. “They often know which children to target, avoiding the more confident and outspoken children.”
What signs should parents look out for?
Mia says that there is an array of symptoms to be on the lookout for. These include the following:
- Dressing inappropriately. This can take place in two different ways. The child can either wear too much clothing to hide bruises, or dress provocatively.
- There is a change in your child’s demeanour, they have become more withdrawn and secretive.
- There is a noticeable drop in their academic performance.
- Outbursts of anger.
- Acting out in a sexualised behaviour.
If you are a child who is being sexually abused, what must you do?
Mia says it is imperative to report the abuse. “You can tell a trusted adult, a teacher, the police and if the abuse is not coming from your home, tell your parents.”
Childline South Africa can also be contacted on 08000 55 555.
By reporting sexual abuse, not only can you safeguard yourself from further abuse, but you can ensure the abuser cannot harm another child.
