No one ever thinks that their child will become a victim of sexual abuse; however, an abuser can target any child no matter the child’s race, gender, religion, or socioeconomic level. Statistics indicate that more children are victims of sexual abuse in Florida and nationwide than are probably imagined.

Some child sexual abuse statistics according to RAINN (Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network), include:

  • 3% of boys grades 5-8 have been sexually abused
  • 5% of high school boys in grades 9-12 admitted to being sexually abused
  • 7% of girls in grades 5-8 said they have been sexually abused
  • 12% of high school girls in grades 9-12 stated they were sexually abused

Although girls are at a higher risk of being sexual abuse victims in their lives, according to these numbers, boys are also sexually abused—a fact that may surprise many people. Sadly, a child—boy or girl—can become a victim of sexual abuse inside or outside the home and by someone the child possibly knows such as a relative, teacher, coach, or older student, etc. According to RAINN:

  • 93% of child sexual assault victims knew their abuser
  • 34.2% of attackers were, in fact, family members
  • 58.7% of abusers were acquaintances
  • 7% of abusers were strangers

The majority of abusers target children they already know in some way and start gradually grooming the child by drawing that child into a secret relationship.

Our Sarasota child-abuse attorneys didn’t publish this information to scare parents or caregivers, but rather to help you become aware that child sexual abuse does occur more often than you may have thought so that you can help protect your child. If you suspect your child is being abused, call Mallard Perez today at 888-409-3805 or request a free copy of our book, When the Unthinkable Happens: Your Guide to Florida Child Abuse Claims.

Damian Mallard, Esq.
Connect with me
Board Certified Sarasota Personal Injury Attorney
Post A Comment