We recognize that talking about abuse can be very difficult for a child. He or she may be able to talk about the abuse one day, but not the next. If it is not a good day, we can schedule another appointment. It may also be decided that your child is too young to make a statement at this time therefore it may decided to interview your child at a later time. Sometimes, counseling may be recommended as a first step before a forensic interview to help assess the child’s exposure, readiness, and safety.
We have found that children are most comfortable when their parents are calm and supportive. We recognize this is a very difficult time for parents as well. We encourage you to get the support you need through counseling or talking to a friend. Please let us know how we can help during this time. A case manager is available to answer questions and can be contacted by calling 401-421-4100, ext. 163. Additionally, the Victims of Crime Helpline is also available, free of charge, 24 hours a day at 1-800-494-8100.Our goal is to help you and your child through this process by decreasing the number of interviews, providing referrals for counseling or other services, and offering support.
Parenting a child who has been sexually abused can present difficult challenges. Children who have been sexually abused often develop symptoms that can be frustrating for the family and others living in the household.
It is important for parents/caretakers not to see their child's symptomatic behavior as being intentionally bad. These symptoms are often reactions to the trauma of being sexually abused.
The following information will help you to understand the symptoms of sexual abuse; explain how to access counseling for your child; provide ways to help you and provide information on what happens next.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP YOUR CHILD:
- Accept your child's fears as real fears.
- Encourage your child to return gradually to normal activities.
- Give your child choices in situations where they are afraid (sleep with nightlight or with the door open).
- Continue to tell your child that you will protect him or her.
- Instruct your child about the importance of keeping genitals private.
- Remind your child that no one likes to be touched against their will.
- Remember that some masturbation is normal for children and is okay if done in private.
- Talk to your child about their feelings (anger, embarrassment, shame, etc.)
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP YOURSELF, AS A PARENT:
The abuse of your child is a traumatic experience for your child and yourself. Recovery is a process that may span their entire life, so it is important that they have the support of the people around them. It is important that you take care of yourself, for the well being of both you and your child.
OTHERS HAVE FOUND IT HELPFUL TO:
- Talk with family members and friends about how you are feeling.
- Stay calm.
- Believe your child, but talk to someone if/when you have doubts.
- Be willing to talk to your child.
- Consider professional support/counseling.
COUNSELING FOR CHILDREN:
- Your child may not feel the way he or she did before sexual abuse - physically, emotionally, or socially. Counseling can help your child deal with these issues and assist in his or her recovery.
- The Children's Advocacy Center can provide counseling services for your child or provide referrals to outside sources. For more information call 401-421-4100.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT:
- The criminal justice system is complicated and usually a lengthy process.
- Once the forensic interview is completed, the Attorney General's Office will have the information needed to make a decision on whether to go forward for prosecution or not.
- If DCYF is involved, the child protective investigator (CPI) should also have information to complete their investigation.
- The CAC’s children’s case manager is available to help following a forensic interview.
- The Children's Advocacy Center cannot guarantee the case will be prosecuted.
- Call the Children's Advocacy Center for any additional questions you may have.
HELPFUL RESOURCES:
- The Children's Advocacy Center 401-421-4100
- The Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network 1-800-656-HOPE
- RI Dept. of Children, Youth, & Families 1-800-RI-CHILD
- RI Dept. of the Attorney General 401-274-4400
- Hasbro Children's Hospital 401-444-3996
- Your local Police Department
- VICTIMS OF CRIME HELPLINE 1-800-494-8100
