Parents often ask us how they can best protect their children, usually girls, from being victims of sexual assault. What’s our answer? First, we want everyone to know that men and boys also commonly experience sexual trauma. Then, we advise that the best way to protect your child is to prevent and address the perpetration of sexual violence, rather than attempting to prevent victimization.
How to do this? There are lots of ways, but let’s start small.
Talking with your kids — including sons! — about the concepts of consent and healthy sexuality is one of the most important things you can do to protect them and others from sexual abuse and assault. Not sure where to start? That’s what we’re here for.
Earlier this month, STAR’s Social Change Director Rebecca Marchiafava sat down for an interview with Ashley Castello, an I CARE Specialist, as part of their “I CARE Live” series. In the video below entitled Parent Powers: Having Conversations About Consent, Rebecca shares tips and resources to inform and empower parents. Don’t have time for the video? Take a look at our online Parent Powers toolkit.
The issue of sexual trauma can feel challenging, uncomfortable, and overwhelming, but there is good news: the solutions to sexual trauma are accessible and beneficial to us all.
Have questions or feedback? Email us at prevention@star.ngo.
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