Many people are affected by sexual abuse.You can help victims by reporting suspected abuse.You should not delay because you don't know if it happened.Before calling the authorities, you need to document the reasons why you think abuse has occurred.
Step 1: There are physical signs of sexual abuse.
Children who are being sexually abused have difficulty walking.When going to the bathroom, they may experience pain.Adults who are being sexually abused may have unexplained marks on their body.It is not your job to investigate the victim beyond what you observe.If you want to check for signs of abuse, don't ask them about their body or remove their shirt.It can traumatize victims.
Step 2: If you notice behavioral changes that indicate child abuse, pay attention.
Sexual abuse can only show up in changes to behavior.Some of the behavioral changes do not suggest child abuse.You should ask more questions if you notice multiple changes.There are sudden changes in appetite, sleeping at night without an explanation, use of adult words for body parts, and the appearance of a new adult friend.
Step 3: There are behavioral changes in adults.
Some adults who have been sexually abused have symptoms.One symptom is not proof of sexual abuse.Multiple symptoms should inspire you to investigate further.
Step 4: If the victim opens up to you, listen.
If the victim is willing to tell you about the abuse, you should listen to them and assure them that they will get the help they need.This is a delicate subject and may make the victim uncomfortable, so don't ask about details.Leave these questions to the professionals.You should tell the victim that it isn't their fault.Don't make promises such as, "We're going to lock him up" if you tell the victim you will get help.
Step 5: Write down your thoughts.
You might have seen something.Write down what you saw.The date, time, location, and identity of the culprit should be noted.
Step 6: Decide if you want to report anonymous.
You can report a crime without giving your identity.Do you want to give your name and number?The authorities cannot follow up with you if you don't.If charges are brought, they can't call on you to testify.If you are afraid of the suspected abuser, you might want to remain anonymous.
Step 7: You can call the appropriate office.
You should call the police if you think an adult is being sexually abused.You can call emergency services by looking up the phone number.You can call Child Protective Services if you think a child is being sexually abused.If you think the child is being abused, call the police.You can call the ChildHelp hotline in the US.All calls are confidential, and the hotline is open 24 hours a day.
Step 8: Information about the victim should be given.
You want to report suspected sexual abuse when you call.If they are a child, give the authorities the age, location, and mental or physical disabilities of the victim.
Step 9: Tell us about your suspicions.
You should tell the authorities why you suspect sexual abuse.If you have a good faith reason to suspect someone has been a victim, give as much detail as you can.Stick to the facts that have been observed.Megan says her bottom hurts all the time and she has trouble sitting down.She has been using sexual language that I haven't heard her use before.If you have one, give it a name.You should describe the abuse in as much detail as possible.If you know about the abuse, you should report it.
Step 10: Provide any other requested information.
If you are reporting child abuse, the authorities might want to know if there are other children in the home, as well as their names and ages.All questions should be answered as best as possible.
Step 11: Call the child's parents.
One of the parents might be abusing the child.You should tell them that someone is going to report the abuse.The authorities should tell the child's parents.You don't need to tell the adult's spouse or partner that he or she could be the abuser.
Step 12: There is a report of suspected Internet pornography.
If you think child pornography has been involved in the abuse, you should contact an appropriate agency in your country.You can reach the Cybertipline in the U.S. by phone or online.The INHOPE: International Association of Internet Hotlines contains an international directory.
Step 13: Provide any other helpful information.
The authorities will look into your complaint.You don't have a right to know the status of the investigation.You might be contacted to provide more information.Comply with the requests as quickly as possible.