Why do People do the Things They Do?
Why people sexually abuse children
To feel power they don’t feel in their adult relationships
Overwhelmingly male, 1/3 juvenile, 14% perpetrators unknown, rest known.
Desire to control someone and feel power
Need to manage or act out difficult emotions
They find it easier to act on their desires if they have convinced themselves the abuse isn’t harmful, or the child consented.
Children, say no. Refuse. Tell someone. Run away. Vomit. Staying silent empowers the abuser to do it again.