What kind of a person would sexually abuse a child?
Sexual abusers children could be anyone. Fathers, mothers, siblings, step-parents, grandparents, and other family members (uncles, aunts, cousins), neighbors, caregivers, religious leaders, teachers, coaches, or anyone else who is in close contact with children. While more cases of men being sex abusers are reported, there is a small proportion of women molesters too. At this juncture, it is important to mention that studies show 30-50 percent of abusers started their sexual offending behaviour as juveniles. Most people imagine abusers to be shadowy and frightening strangers. In fact, most often these abusers can range from family members to acquaintances and someone the victim trusts explicitly.
Rarely are abusers complete strangers. Contrary also to what people may think, a person who abuses a child is usually not someone with a psychiatric disorder. They are usually indistinguishable from anyone else. In fact, often an abuser is a “regular” person who leads a “routine” life and is known to the victim, but has no inhibition or qualms for having sex with children.
Therefore, parents and guardians are implored to be sensitive to the environment of their children, wards and those under their care, including the people around them!
