Talking Contraception and Sexuality with Your Child

Sexual Abuse and Coercion

What are the statistics on sexual abuse/coercion

Although you may not want to think about it, the statistics on sexual abuse/coercion of children are frightening:

• One in four females are sexually abused.
• One in seven boys are sexually abused
• 45% of all children are assaulted in some way by age 18.
• There are more victims between the ages of eight and twelve than any other group.
• The victim knows the offender 85% of the time.

It is important to note that the victim is not at fault; assault is generally more about anger and/or power over others rather than sex, and it may also be about sexual desire and attraction using power. Many are at risk, and most assailants are not strangers to their victims.

Last Modified: September 5, 2006