ABUSE

MOST RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS can be warm and open. That is because they are built on trust. A pat on the back, a hug of encouragement, or a firm handshake are ways we can show people we care about them. However, it is a sad fact that some adults and teenagers use their size and their power over others to abuse them. You need to know about abuse so that you will understand w bat to do if you are ever threatened. Tbose who abuse young people know they are doing something wrong. They usually try to keep their actions a secret from other adults. They might frighten their victims to prevent them from telling anyone what is happening. They might try to make the abused person feel that he or she is to blame. No one should live in fear of abuse. You do not have to let people touch you in ways you find uncomfortable. If you are ever asked to do something you knovv is wrong, you have the right to refuse.

PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM SEXUAL ABUSE MOST SEXUAL ABUSE CAN BE PREVENTED if young people know and follow these three R's:

Recognize.

Resist.

Report