ABUSE

People who sexually abuse young people are
called molesters. Most often, the molester
is known by his or her victim. The molester
might be anyone-a family member,
schoolteacher, religious leader,
or youth group leader.
An adult attempting
sexual abuse might begin
by touching you in ways that
are confusing. He or she might
try to touch your groin area and
pretend it was an accident. You
ntight be asked to pose for photographs
in your underwear or
swimming suit, and then in no
clothing at all.
Some adults or older youths might try
to use your natural curiosity about sex as
an opportunity to attempt sexual abuse.
Sex is a normal bodily function you need to
understand. Be on guard around anyone who
makes it seem dirty or secretive.

Resist
If anyone ever attempts to do something to your body that makes you
feel bad or that you know is wrong, you have the right to stop them.
Run, shout, or make a scene in public to protect yourseif. Faced with
resistance, most molesters will back off.

Reparl
Anytime you believe that someone has tried to abuse you or someone
else, report it. Talk to a trusted adult or call an abuse hot line-you can
get the number from the phone book or by dialing an operator. Abuse is
an adult-sized problem. By talking about it with adults, you can let them
solve it.

For more information on dealing with abuse, you and your parents
or guardian can read together the pamphlet How to Protect Your
Children from Child Abuse: A Parent·s Guide, found inside the cover
of this handbook.