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INTRODUCTION
Child survivors of sexual abuse are at a higher risk to experience long-term physical and mental effects . This is widely discussed in specialist literature ; but knowledge about mental long-term consequences is not generally accessible to helpers and carers who are practically assisting children at risk . Culturally sensitive information is even less available , especially in places that are experiencing a humanitarian emergency .
We know that early intervention is crucial for the physical and mental health , and wellbeing and rehabilitation of such children . Sexual abuse is associated with taboo and shame in most societies , and when it happens to children it is particularly shocking . For the child , and also for the child ’ s family and relatives , it is usually extremely difficult to deal with . We know that few children who experience this type of violence report it to adults ( even to adults they trust ). Far too few are identified and receive help in well-functioning societies ; even fewer are identified and supported in societies that are experiencing war or other emergencies .
1.5 Related manuals – how to prevent sexual abuse of children
Sexual abuse does not occur in isolation . Interventions to protect the mental health of survivors must take account of broader humanitarian guidance . Several manuals about children and sexual abuse already exist . What makes our manual unique is that it aims to support helpers in war , conflict and humanitarian situations and in low-resource settings .
UNICEF ’ s manual Action to End Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation is designed for policy makers and partners . It proposes a framework of action to prevent and respond to child sexual abuse and exploitation , three common approaches to prevention : 1 . Mobilise to change social norms , attitudes and behaviour ( most common ). 2 . The environmental and situational context that creates opportunities for abuse ) 3 . Reduce risks of children victimisation using social and economic empowerment programmes ( cash transfer and social safety net ( SSN ) projects , life-skills training , education and protection awareness , assisting parents to protect their children , etc .).
Primary prevention programmes increasingly combine these strategies , increasing their effectiveness .
The World Health Organization ’ s manual INSPIRE Handbook : action for implementing the seven strategies for ending violence against children explains in detail how countries can choose and implement interventions . Chapters address implementation and enforcement of laws ; norms and values ; safe environments ; parent and caregiver support ; income and economic strengthening ; response and support services ; and education and life skills .
The Child Protection Working group ’ s Minimum standards for Child Protection in Humanitarian Assistance includes activities that child protection actors , humanitarian staff can use to strengthen local capacities .
The Committee for Children ’ s How to Talk with Kids About Personal Safety and Sexual Abuse is a conversation guide . Talking about personal safety is one of the most powerful ways to protect children from sexual abuse . Based on decades of research , the guide provides practical , digestible advice and age-appropriate conversation starters , giving caregivers and helpers confidence to navigate and normalise conversations with children about their safety .