Asking someone not to panic when their child discloses child sexual abuse attorney in fort Philadelphia PA may seem unreasonable. Anger is a natural reaction to news like this, but it may not be the response that best serves your child at the moment. Children tend to associate anger with wrongdoing, and the last thing you want is for your child to think they’ve done something wrong.
Whether the abuse is alleged to have been perpetrated by another child or an adult, there are things you can do to slow the runaway train of emotions you feel and to approach the situation with a plan.
Do Not Overreact To Sexual Abuse Attorney
Your child is coming to you in a time of need; they need your strength, calm, and composure. What you should do immediately to contact a diocese abuse advocate in Philadelphia to disclose the sexual abuse. It’s alright for your child to see you getting upset, but try not to become overpowered to the point of losing control. Your child is probably feeling powerless over their own life and body, so your self-control is essential not only for you but also for your child.
Calmly Ask For More Information
While keeping yourself calm and composed, ask your child with whom and what happened in a non-leading way. Your child will probably tell you what you want to know. Please don’t force it; you do not wish to retraumatize your child by having them retell the experience of child sexual abuse attorney in fort Philadelphia PA before they are emotionally able to go there. Keep in mind some sexual behaviors are typical for children and do not naturally mean abuse. Although, abused children may act out their experiences on themselves or others. It is essential to understand what is normal and what is a red flag for sexual abuse.
Stay In The Moment With Your Child
Abused children usually feel responsible or guilty for what happened to them. They may even think to the extent that they deserved the abuse or let it happen. Be emotionally and physically present with your child and assure them that they were not at fault. Children cannot assent to sexual situations and are never to blame for the abuse. Validation of their feelings and emotions is critical after disclosure.
Be On The Same Page
Usually, when a family learns of diocese abuse advocate in Philadelphia, chaos ensues. One adult may want to seek legal action, while another may want to wait to involve the police. Discussion and consensus among caregivers help ensure no extra emotional turmoil or stress within the house in the weeks after disclosure. If caretakers are on the same page and agree to a plan of action, the child is less likely to take on the stress and uncertainty, resulting in self-blame.
Seek Help
That is a vital step not only for your child but for yourself. Getting your child into regular counseling with a trauma-trained therapist may be one of the most beneficial things you can do to promote long-term healing. While what you need to do is contact professional attorneys like the ones at Horowitz Law for victims of sexual abuse. That is a matter of utmost importance, and you should take it seriously. Thus, contact us today!