Helping Your Child Recover from Sexual Abuse

by Caren Adams, Jennifer J. Fay

The sexual abuse of a child creates a devastating family crisis. Parents want to know what to do and say to help their child, both immediately and in the long term. Helping your Child Recover from Sexual Abuse offers practical guidance for parents who courageously face the days and months after a child's abuse. Written in a positive, reassuring jargon-free style, it discusses each stage of a child's recovery. Information for parents appears on the left-hand pages; sample conversations and activities for parent and child together are on the right-hand pages. The book presents the collective wisdom of numerous parents who have been through this experience and have learned how to help their children feel stronger, safer, braver, more lovable, worthwhile, and competent. Topics What to do when abuse is first disclosed; Helping a child cope with the legal system; Responding to the reactions of friends and loved ones; Children's reactions to abuse; How parents and children grieve differently; Rebuilding a child's self-esteem; Dealing with confusion about sexuality; Helping a child feel safe and in control; Typical problems at different ages; Recognizing when a child is getting better.

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[Kelly Michelle]

Very helpful book for explaining the different issues of sexual abuse to children.

[Hannah]

I wish no parent had to read this book. That being said, picking this up I will say there are helpful phrases to follow and refer to when helping your child navigate such a complex experience.

I liked how there were pieces in the book meant to help the parents process their experience as it relates to their child. So often blame is placed on the parent and the grief is all encompassing.

I think I would’ve liked to see more research behind the ‘why’ of a lot of it as well as have it back up some of the statements made about offenders.

It was also validating to see that some of my concerns about reading sexual abuse prevention books to children who have already experienced abuse can be seen as shaming and unhelpful. There needs to be more resources for children who have been victims of abuse without telling them what they “should’ve” done differently. The fault lies with the abuser and the abuser only.

[Joy_Ly]

Seeing the publishing date of this book I wondered how relevant the information would still be. I found that this book has aged well, and to my unprofessional eye, the information and advice is still very helpful, current, and important.

[Kimberley]

I’m glad this was a quick read. It was so simplistic. I wouldn’t recommend this except as the most cursory intro.