MYTH 1: It’s only abuse if there is physical violence.
FACT : Physical abuse is just one form of abuse. Children can also be harmed by emotional abuse, sexual abuse and neglect. These types of abuse are usually hidden from sight and, as a result, people are less likely to take action and help the children.
MYTH 2 : Only bad people abuse. Good people don’t.
FACT : Not all abusers are bad and want to harm their children intentionally. Some abusers may have been victims of abuse themselves, and grew up not knowing any other way of parenting or treating children. Others may be struggling with mental health problems, alcohol and drug addiction and other personal problems.
MYTH 3 : Many children do not know their abusers.
FACT : Although some children are abused by complete strangers, many actually know their abusers and trust them. Abusers are most commonly family members, or someone who is close to the family and the child.
MYTH 4 : Child abuse doesn’t happen in “good” families and wealthy households.
FACT : Child abuse can happen in any household, regardless of ethnic background, culture, religion or economic status. Sometimes, a family that seems to have it all can hide a different story behind closed doors.
MYTH 5 : Many adults who suffered abuse in childhood are not affected by this abuse in adult life.
FACT : Although some adults manage to cope with abuse they suffered as children, many remain deeply affected in adult life. It is not easy to just get over child abuse. Survivors of child abuse need care and support to overcome the trauma of abuse and live full healthy lives.
MYTH 6 : Abused children will definitely grow up to be abusers.
FACT : Some survivors of child abuse may unconsciously repeat the violent or abusive treatment that they experienced as a child. However, many have a strong motivation to protect their own children from experiencing what they had suffered and, instead, become wonderful parents.
MYTH 7 : A child is responsible for the abuse that he/she suffers.
FACT : A child is never responsible for the abuse he/she suffers. The responsibility for abuse lies solely with the offender. In the case of sexual abuse, offenders often try to shift the blame for their actions by accusing the child of being promiscuous or seductive, especially if it involves a teenager.
MYTH 8 : Children lie about being sexually abused.
FACT : It is extremely rare for children to lie about being sexually abused. In reality, children may not want to disclose sexual abuse because they are embarrassed, afraid or uncomfortable.
