Help for parents, educators, & survivors

1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys is sexually abused before the age of 18.An estimated 39 million survivors of childhood sexual abuse exist in America today.Official statistics understate actual rates — most cases never come to the attention of authorities. Sources: CDC ACE Study; Abel et al. (1987); Hopper, J.

30–40% of victims are abused by a family member.About 50% are abused by someone outside the family whom they know and trust.Approximately 40% are abused by older or larger children they know.Only 10% are abused by strangers. Source: Kilpatrick, Saunders & Smith (2003), U.S. Department of Justice.

The median age for reported abuse is 9 years old.More than 20% of children are sexually abused before the age of 8.Nearly 50% of victims of the most serious offenses are children under 12. Sources: Putnam (2003); Snyder (2000), U.S. Department of Justice.

Children who keep abuse secret — or who tell and are not believed — face greater lifelong risk of psychological, emotional, social, and physical problems.Survivors experience higher rates of PTSD, depression, school problems, and substance abuse.Early experiences of abuse are linked to higher risks in adolescence, including teen pregnancy.Sources: Molnar, Buka & Kessler (2001); NCTSN; CDC. Full citation list available on request.