Recently, there have been allegations about how trusted institutions are repeatedly failing the kids they are entrusted with. The high risk and rates of sexual abuse in the Boy Scouts of America have been recognized since 1988. Despite the implementation of the Youth Protection Programs in the same year, sexual abuse cases kept on rising. Before 1994, over 2,000 cases were already reported.
The effects on such young victims can leave lasting emotional and psychological scars. Victims of sexual abuse often struggle with feelings of confusion and self-blame, which leads to isolation. This mostly happens in instances where the abuse was covered up or dismissed for years. When pursuing justice, survivors need to work with the compassionate attorneys at File Abuse Lawsuit, who can empathize with their situation.
Here are some essential tips on how to provide meaningful and compassionate support for someone who has experienced sexual abuse during their time in the Boy Scouts of America or in any similar setting.
1. Provide a Safe Conversation Environment
The most powerful thing you can provide to a victim or a survivor of sexual abuse is providing a safe conversation environment. Many survivors have been silenced or ignored for years because no one wants to listen and validate their experience.
A safe conversation setting helps build trust and reassures the survivors that they are not alone. Avoid asking questions like “Why didn’t you speak out sooner?” or “Are you sure?” Such questions can be hurtful and retraumatizing to them.
2. Avoid Judgment
Let the victims and survivors share their stories at their own pace. Some may be ready to talk about it in detail, while others may hold back and share fragments of their story. Just provide a listening ear and do not pass judgment of any sort.
Active listening and maintaining eye contact while nodding your head show you are concerned about their situation and willing to help. Refrain from interrupting or pressuring them to disclose more than they are comfortable sharing. Instead of judging their situation, encourage them to seek professional support from research therapists and attend local support groups for abuse survivors.
3. Respect Their Privacy
Survivors of sexual abuse, especially from trusted and nationwide organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America, might find it very hard to share their stories. When they do, it means they have found a safe and trusted environment.
Because such big institutions can easily debunk or suppress survivor stories, you need to respect the boundaries of those who share their abuse experience with confidentiality. Do not share their story without obtaining explicit permission from them, even with well-meaning family and friends. Allow the survivors to decide when, where, and how they want to speak about their sexual abuse.
4. Educate Yourself
Take time to learn more about the impact of childhood sexual abuse from institutions such as the Boy Scouts of America. This will help you understand the level of trauma and dissociation involved in such cases.
You will end up being a more informed and empathetic supporter. It also prevents intentional comments or things that might cause harm to the survivors. Educating yourself can also help with providing practical help to the survivors, such as assisting with daily tasks, attending court hearings, or helping with filing a claim.
Conclusion
Being trusted with someone’s sexual abuse story is a huge responsibility that requires one to be compassionate, patient, and understanding. While you can’t erase the trauma of sexual abuse, creating a safe space can go a long way in the healing journey of the survivor. Your presence and unwavering support can make the path forward a little less traumatizing and lonely.
