What is childhood abuse?
What do we mean by Childhood Sexual Abuse?
World Health Organisation, 1999The involvement of a child in sexual activity that he or she does not fully comprehend, is unable to give informed consent to, or for which the child is not developmentally prepared, or else that violates the laws and social taboos of society. Children can be sexually abused by both adults and other children who are – by virtue of their stage of development – in a position of responsibility, trust or power over the victim.
This can include:
- Inducing or coercing a child to engage in sexual activity
- Involving a child in prostitution or other sexual practices
- Involving a child in pornographic performances and materials
Sexual abuse is sexually, physically and emotionally abusive. It breaches the personal boundaries to which all human beings are entitled.
What do we mean by child abuse?
World Health Organisation, 1999Child abuse or maltreatment constitutes all forms of physical and/or emotional ill treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child’s health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power.
Abuse can take place in a wide range of settings:
- Within and outwith the family
- Local authority and foster care
- Religious establishments
- Charitable organisations
Abuse affects people from all ethnic communities, social backgrounds and age groups.
