Misconceptions & Facts

Misconception:

Talking about sexual assault will make children anxious or scared.

Fact:

When presented in an age-appropriate and non-threatening manner, information about body safety increases self esteem, reinforces boundaries, and teaches children how to keep their bodies safe.

Misconception:

Sexual abuse is something that happens to "other families."

Fact:

One out of three girls and one out of five boys will be sexually abused before their eighteenth birthday. (Finklehor, 1994)

Fact:

There is one sex offender per square mile in the U.S. (Department of Justice, 1999)

Misconception:

"I always know where my children are so they're safe from strangers and misfits."

Fact:

80-95% of sex offenders are known to the child (Colorado Bureau of Investigation, 2003)