Sexual Abuse in Childhood

Abuse can be defined as exploitation or an imbalance of power. Sexual abuse is among the most complex and devastating experiences a person can endure. This complexity can be compounded by the fact that many victims of childhood sexual abuse know, and even love, their abuser, as they are often family members or close acquaintances. Specifically, childhood sexual abuse is classified when the victim is a minor and when the abuse involves inappropriate sexual behavior.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Lasting Physical Symptoms
  • Difficulty with Intimacy
  • Denial
  • Dissociation
  • Guilt
  • Anxiety and Depression

Biblical Encouragement

2 Corinthians 4:8-9
We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.

Psalm 147:3
He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.

Discussion Questions

  • Why would narratives of rape and abuse be included in the Bible? Two examples are the rape of Dinah in Gen 34:2 and of Tamar in 2 Sam 13:14. Is it possible that they are there to show that God does not approve of abuse, and in fact grieves with those who are abused?

  • How does your experience differ from the biblical description of love?

    • 1 Corinthians 13: Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

    • 1 John 4:16-18: So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.

  • How do you think God feels about your experience?

    • Psalm 34:18: The Lord is near to the brokenhearted; and saves the crushed in spirit.

    • Isaiah 41:10: Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Moving Forward

  • Allow Yourself to Grieve

    • Acknowledge that you have been grievously violated and give yourself the time and patience to deal with this reality and acknowledge the gravity of the situation.

  • Set Healthy Boundaries for Yourself

    • Be sure to remove yourself from any situation that could put you at risk. Keep company with trusted individuals who can help keep you accountable to the boundaries you set.

  • Live Under the Cross

    • Whatever you are feeling, know that Jesus understands and is near to you in your suffering (Heb 4:15, Matt 26:38). Take comfort and confide in our Lord Jesus, who makes all things new.

  • Seek Out Professional Help

    • As this is a serious issue, seek out support from support groups, your pastor, or a licensed counselor who can help you to move forward.