Parents Whose children have been sexually abused Community Group
This group is for parents whose children have been sexually abused. We welcome both Mothers and Fathers. Here, we can offer support to one another. We can vent, cry and lift each other up. No condemning or criticizing allowed. We are here for support. We LOVE (((HUGS))) !
Dear parents, ladies and beloved on this journey for justice and healing,
I have been immersed in trying to decide what we need most as parents of children who were sexually abused. Since I learned of my daughter's abuse, I decided I wanted to make a difference. Of course, I am still dealing with so many emotions of guilt, anger, and disbelief, etc. I have come a long way from the first days of discovery. Now with the PSU scandal and all the much needed awareness around sexual abuse, I am still asking myself the same question. If I were going to embark upon a mission what do the victims and or the victims families need most? I really am curious to hear from all of you. I know awareness and education around abuse needs to be increased. People have to understand the nature of these abusers, become aware of how they groom their victims and often the parents. The PSU scandal illustrates the level of manipulation not by one but by many, by many who turned a blind eye. Perhaps, they didnt' want to believe it. As I read all the posts here and I reflect on our experience, too often I felt alone. The parents here were my only salvation and hope. We didn't feel support by outsiders, because even though she reported, no one wanted to talk about our feelings and the frustrations we dealt with daily. My initial thought was to start a safe haven for women/parents and the children who have been sexually abused. Similar to a safe haven for women who are entrapped in physical abuse. But I wanted the safe haven to be more than a home, I wanted it to be a place where true compassion, love and resources could be available. Similar to an adovacy center, but a place where wounds can heal and someone can support the families through the entire process. I would love to hear your thoughts. Basically, what do you think the children/we as parents need as victims of this crime? I am aware that everyone may have different needs, but that is what I want to hear.. As I work on this project, I want to make a difference that comes from those whose voices are not heard. I don't want this to be about me and my daughter, I want this to be about all the victims and the parents who suffer.. Your replies and honesty are greatly appreciated. Bless you all and thank you in advance for your thoughts.
I have been immersed in trying to decide what we need most as parents of children who were sexually abused. Since I learned of my daughter's abuse, I decided I wanted to make a difference. Of course, I am still dealing with so many emotions of guilt, anger, and disbelief, etc. I have come a long way from the first days of discovery. Now with the PSU scandal and all the much needed awareness around sexual abuse, I am still asking myself the same question. If I were going to embark upon a mission what do the victims and or the victims families need most? I really am curious to hear from all of you. I know awareness and education around abuse needs to be increased. People have to understand the nature of these abusers, become aware of how they groom their victims and often the parents. The PSU scandal illustrates the level of manipulation not by one but by many, by many who turned a blind eye. Perhaps, they didnt' want to believe it. As I read all the posts here and I reflect on our experience, too often I felt alone. The parents here were my only salvation and hope. We didn't feel support by outsiders, because even though she reported, no one wanted to talk about our feelings and the frustrations we dealt with daily. My initial thought was to start a safe haven for women/parents and the children who have been sexually abused. Similar to a safe haven for women who are entrapped in physical abuse. But I wanted the safe haven to be more than a home, I wanted it to be a place where true compassion, love and resources could be available. Similar to an adovacy center, but a place where wounds can heal and someone can support the families through the entire process. I would love to hear your thoughts. Basically, what do you think the children/we as parents need as victims of this crime? I am aware that everyone may have different needs, but that is what I want to hear.. As I work on this project, I want to make a difference that comes from those whose voices are not heard. I don't want this to be about me and my daughter, I want this to be about all the victims and the parents who suffer.. Your replies and honesty are greatly appreciated. Bless you all and thank you in advance for your thoughts.
Merrylegsmom
thank you everyone for your thoughts. Truly, I am gathering this input to develop more programs. Keep talking and supporting each other.. Education seems to be key. Again, if we can teach children early, preK and elementary school, they are more likely to tell, less bound by shame because they don't understand what it is that is happening to them, so stigma is less in their mind. Support groups for parents seems paramount, better reporting....accuracy... Rehab prgrms for offenders...Much a like a victim for CSA the prognosis for healing is better when reported earlier, same for offenders. There are few support groups for the victims. In my area not one support group for CSA victims. Currently, I am working on this as a project. I also, think tparent support groups are imperative. If anyone is involved in any of these types of support groups, please let me know. The parent support group could also provide some advocacy...thanks all...Peace and healing sen to all of you and the precious victims.
deleted_user
it is several months later, I hope your project is going well. One thing that I think would be helpful is stories of hope. As i have poured over the internet looking for information and resources one thing that I have been looking for is stories of children who have abused who are living healthy and happy lives. Stories of getting past the hurt. Stories of mothers who have been able to forgive themselves and move forward and like you strived to make a difference. Stories about healing that would help people on those days when any kind of a future seems impossible.
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