YOUR CHILD IS MY CHILD: COMMUNITY EDUCATION IN SEXUAL ABUSE FOR A HIGH RISK AREA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15270/46-1-183Abstract
Sexual abuse of children is a reality that has been present for centuries (Bandi, 2003:1) andresearch has indicated that the rate of sexual abuse of children is extremely high (Karson,
2001:4). Most parents find it difficult to discuss the topic of sexual abuse with their
adolescents, and even more with their pre-school children. This is understandable, as it might
even be difficult for parents to discuss general sexual matters with their children. The
complexity of the issue is highlighted by Myers and Milner (2007:2), who refer to sex and
sexuality as complicated because of the “different discourses, labels and identities” that
influence the way people make sense of sexual matters. They also refer to the lack of
discussion of sexual matters, or the ways in which these matters are discussed that can lead to
confusion. According to Lively and Lively (1991:74), even parents in affluent families may not
always explain the sexual act when their children see them having intercourse. This may
confuse the children. Children who are exposed to sexual activities on a daily basis can become
vulnerable in terms of sexual abuse, because the context of the sexual behaviour is not
explained. The parents also do not necessarily teach the children to protect their own bodies
and that sexual activities should be reserved for when they are mature.
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