THINGS ABUSERS TELL THEIR VICTIMS: ARE THOSE THINGS TRUE?
by Akintola Oluwatobi
Abusers tell their victims threatening statements to ensure they remain entrapped.
“You will die if you tell anyone”
“They will blame and beat you”
“I will kill you”
“Your mummy and your daddy will die and you will suffer”
“Evil things will happen to you and your family members”
“Your parents will not believe you”
And many more.
Parents/teachers/guardians,
I want you to note at this point that some children don’t open up to you when someone is sexually abusing them because some of you can be very tough and the kids are extremely scared of the backlash from you. Sexual abuse must be addressed with utmost maturity, self-restraint and caution.
Let them know the abusers will continue to threaten and abuse them the more if they do not tell.
It will affect their studies because they won’t be able to concentrate.
They will continue to be unhappy and can be depressed.
They could be harmed and their life could be in danger.
Let them know they can contract diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
Could lead to unwanted pregnancy.
Parenting is the most important jobs of our lives and we must do everything to be effective at it.
Gain the trust of your kids. Let them be free to tell you any attempt by anyone. Discuss sexual education with them once or twice a month.