We support survivors of CSA

Understanding Childhood Sexual Assault

Childhood sexual assault is a profound and pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals around the world. It involves any sexual activity with a child where consent is not or cannot be given. The impacts of such trauma can be long-lasting, influencing various aspects of a survivor's life, including their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

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The Statistics

• 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys in the United States experience sexual abuse at some point in childhood.

• Harm can be caused by, and can occur between people of the same age, gender or sex. 

• Survivors of childhood sexual assault are at a higher risk for developing mental health issues such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as experiencing difficulties in relationships and daily functioning.

• About one in 10 children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday​​​

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The Impacts of Child Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse impacts children from all cultures, ethnicities, environments, genders, ages, and socioeconomic backgrounds. And while we want you to know that sexual abuse is something that happens in all communities and corners of the world, what we would like to draw your attention to is the word impacts.

 

Sexual abuse can have persistent, long-term impacts that make it difficult for a child to focus on school, or to cope with future challenges. In fact, sexual abuse is correlated with increased depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and suicidality. Sexual abuse can make it difficult for a child to be a child.

 

What is Sibling Sexual Assault?

Sibling sexual assault refers to any form of sexual behavior between siblings that is abusive, non-consensual, and harmful. This type of abuse can occur between biological siblings, step-siblings, or half-siblings. It may involve physical contact, such as inappropriate touching or forced sexual acts, or non-physical behaviors, such as exposing private parts or coercing a sibling to watch pornography. Sibling sexual assault is a serious violation of trust and boundaries within the family and can have long-lasting psychological, emotional, and physical consequences for both the victim and the perpetrator.

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The Statistics​

• CSA can and most commonly does occur between minors. Siblings, cousins, and friends can cause lasting harm through SA, regardless of their intentions. 

• The most common place for children to be sexually abused is in a home.

• 15% of adults recalled some kind of sexual activity with a sibling during their own childhood and 5-10% reported that the activity was harmful or coercive

• More than ⅓ of sexual harm to children and teens is caused by other children or teens

• Only about 12% of those who are affected by sibling sexual trauma ever tell anyone about it 

• Despite current estimates that half of all childhood sexual harm is caused by other children or teens, resources for child sexual abuse and incest usually assume that an adult caused the harm

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The Impacts of Sibling Sexual Assault

The impact of sibling sexual assault can be profound and long-lasting for the entire family:

• For the Victim:

Victims may experience a range of emotional and psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), guilt, shame, and difficulties with trust and relationships. The trauma can also affect their self-esteem, academic performance, and social interactions.

• For the Perpetrator:

Perpetrators may struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, and confusion about their actions. Without appropriate intervention, they may continue harmful behaviors or experience difficulties in forming healthy relationships in the future.​

• For the Parents:

When a parent discovers that one of their children has been sexually assaulted by a sibling, it can be a devastating and overwhelming experience. The emotional turmoil, feelings of guilt, and confusion about how to support both children can be immense. It is crucial for parents to acknowledge their own need for healing and support during this challenging time. ​

 

How We Help

Why This Cause Matters

Supporting survivors of childhood sexual assault is crucial because:

1. Healing and Recovery: Survivors often carry the weight of their trauma into adulthood. Providing them with the resources and support they need to heal is essential for their well-being and ability to lead fulfilling lives.

2. Breaking the Silence: Many survivors suffer in silence due to stigma and shame. Raising awareness and supporting foundations like Saprea helps break down these barriers, encouraging more survivors to seek help.

3. Preventing Future Abuse: By educating communities and advocating for better protections and support systems, we can work towards preventing future instances of childhood sexual assault.​

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Our Commitment​

​We are committed to supporting Saprea through financial donations, volunteer efforts, and by spreading awareness about their vital work. We believe in the power of community and collective action to make a difference in the lives of survivors and to contribute to a safer, more supportive world for everyone. A portion of our proceeds are donated directly to Saprea, supporting the important work that they do.