Discovering that their child has been sexually abused can have a profound effect on a non-abusing parent or carer, impacting both their own wellbeing and their ability to support their child through recovery, according to a new knowledge review by the Centre of expertise on child sexual abuse (CSA Centre).
In its latest report, the CSA Centre has found that parents and carers can experience profound emotional, psychological, relational and practical impacts which can significantly affect their capacity to support their child without appropriate help.
Parents and carers may experience shock, guilt, shame, helplessness, anger and distress, with some also experiencing self-blame, trauma symptoms, physical health effects, and resurfacing memories of their own past trauma. Impacts can differ between parents and carers depending on factors like sex or ethnicity, and their own past experiences of abuse. These can intersect in different ways and create additional barriers to accessing support.
Existing research shows that parents and carers are key figures in their children’s recovery after sexual abuse, yet they often face significant barriers to getting support themselves. From limited or poorly signposted services to the worry that professional responses could themselves be a source of harm, the knowledge review explores the range of barriers that parents and carers may face.
The review also highlights the significant benefits of support when it is offered, on parents’ wellbeing, their children’s recovery after sexual abuse, and their wider family’s welfare. Higher levels of parental support are associated with improved mental health, better behavioural outcomes and longer-term resilience in children, while unsupportive or doubting responses can compound the harm caused by the abuse itself. Professionals can play a vital role in this support, providing timely, coordinated, non-judgemental support, including emotional and therapeutic help, clear information and guidance, and practical assistance.
Designed for professionals, funders, commissioners and decision makers, this knowledge review aims to improve understanding of the impact of abuse on parents and carers, and the support needs they may have. The review not only highlights a need for further research in this area, but shines a light on the importance of support for parents and carers of sexually abused children.
Download The experiences and support needs of parents and carers of sexually abused children: A knowledge review here.
