Common Myths About Child Sexual Abuse

Myth: “It only happens to girls.”
Truth: Child sexual abuse can happen to any child—regardless of gender. Boys are also abused and they are often even less likely to
disclose due to stigma and shame.

Myth: “Strangers are the biggest threat.”
Truth: Over 90% of children who are sexually abused are harmed by someone they know and trust—like a family member, friend, neighbor,
coach, or teacher.

Myth: “Children make up stories about abuse.”
Truth: False allegations by children are rare. Most children are afraid to speak up and when they do, they are usually telling the truth.
Disclosures should always be taken seriously.

Myth: “If there is no physical evidence, it did not happen.”
Truth: Most child sexual abuse does not leave visible signs. Emotional and behavioral changes are often the only clues. The absence
of physical evidence does not mean abuse did not occur.

Myth: “If a child does not say no or try to stop it, it is not abuse.”
Truth: Children are often too scared, confused or manipulated to resist or speak out. Abuse is never the child’s responsibility—it is the
adult’s crime.

Myth: “Talking about abuse will scare children.”
Truth: Age-appropriate conversations about body safety and boundaries protect children. It empowers them to recognize unsafe
situations and know how to speak up.

Myth: “Abusers are easy to spot—they are creepy and obvious.”
Truth: Abusers often appear friendly, helpful, or charming. They gain trust slowly and manipulate both the child and the adults
around them.

Myth: “It only happens in certain communities or cultures.”
Truth: Child sexual abuse crosses all cultural, religious and socioeconomic boundaries. No community is immune, which is why
awareness and education are crucial everywhere.