Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse is so very abhorrent; most of us do not even want to think about
it. However, this fact is what makes it especially complicated to deal with –
there are so many layers of shame and abuse that surround it. Unfortunately, it
does take place in the Muslim Community, and it is something we need to deal with.
Recently Muslims have begun to address child sexual abuse. Umm Reem published a thorough examination of the topic
on MuslimMatters.org. : Sex and the Ummah: Child Molestation in the Muslim Community –
Myth or Reality A particularly courageous article was written by sister
Sarah Rashid: Reclaiming My Life after Sexual Abuse.
While news stories of sexual predators are scary, what is even more frightening
is that sexual abuse usually occurs at the hands of someone the child knows and
should be able to trust–most often close relatives, but it may also be an
educator or a trusted family friend not actually part of the family. And contrary
to what many believe, it’s not just girls who are at risk. Boys and girls
both suffer from sexual abuse. In fact, sexual abuse of boys may be underreported
due to shame and stigma. So, please
Child Sexual Abuse has very serious impacts on the child. The effects of sexual
abuse extend far beyond childhood. Sexual abuse robs children of their childhood
and creates a loss of trust, feelings of guilt and self-abusive behavior. It can
lead to antisocial behavior, depression, identity confusion, loss of self-esteem
and other serious emotional problems. It can also lead to difficulty with intimate
relationships later in life. Finally, the sexual abuse makes it more difficult for
the survivor of abuse to function in their lives overall.