Child Abuse Questions

What is a child advocacy center?

To understand what the Children’s Recovery Center (CRC) is, you need to understand what children face without a CRC. Without a CRC, the child may end up having to tell the worst story of his or her life over and over again, to doctors, police, lawyers, therapists, investigators, judges, and others. They may have to talk about that traumatic experience in a police station where they think they might be in trouble or may be asked the wrong questions by a well-meaning teacher or other adult that could hurt the case against the abuser. CRC is a safe place where children and their families can come after a reported allegation of abuse to receive support services.  A coordinated team of experts in medicine, law enforcement, victim advocacy, mental health, and other disciplines hold offenders accountable and help children and families heal in a comprehensive, seamless way so no future is out of reach.

What is a forensic interview?

A forensic interview is a non-leading, child friendly one-on-one conversation between the child and an interview specialist.  During the interview, children will have the opportunity to talk openly.  The room has a camera for law enforcement, social services, victim advocates, medical professionals, and the solicitor’s office to observe the interview. This reduces the number of times a child has to tell their story.

What is a forensic medical exam?

A forensic medical exam is a head-to-toe exam of the body by a qualified physician who has been trained on examining sexual abuse victims. The exam is not painful or invasive and is done to ensure the health of the child, diagnose medical conditions, and document possible findings. The child is accompanied by their advocate during the exam. 

Why is counseling important?

Counseling is an important component in addressing both the immediate and long-term effects of child abuse-related trauma. Counseling can help the child and family cope with the trauma at hand and any potential issues that arise.  Family Bridges Therapeutic Associates is located in the CRC building.  Trained therapists provide specifically supported treatments. The different types of treatments are explained to the caregiver and the child during the child’s first appointment. 

Who does abuse impact?

According to national estimates one in four households are currently dealing with some form of abuse or has one or more family members who are survivors of abuse.

Who gets abused?

By the time they reach their 18th birthday, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused. Children with disabilities are four times more likely to be victimized.

At what age does abuse begin?

Sexual abuse can begin as young as infants and range to teenagers. Victims do not always sustain physical injury but may experience psychological trauma. 

Why don’t children tell someone if they are being abused?

Children often fail to report abuse for fear that disclosure will bring worse consequences than being victimized again. The offender is often someone the victim loves and trusts.

At what age does abuse start?

Children at the age of six and below are the most vulnerable to abuse.

Who is abusing these children?

Perpetrators may include family members, friends, and acquaintances. 95% of abused children know and love their abusers.