Sexual Abuse Awareness

For many, the sexual abuse of children can be very difficult to talk about. It may be even more difficult to acknowledge that children, regardless of age, gender or socioeconomic status, are sexually abused every day in Kern County. Child sexual abuse includes both sexual assault (sex acts with children, masturbation in the presence of children and child molestation) and sexual exploitation (allowing children to engage in prostitution or in the production of child pornography).

Research shows that sexual abuse negatively interferes with a child’s attitude toward self, trusting relationships, and sexuality. Without intervention, these children are likely to experience psychological problems as they become older, including post-traumatic stress disorder, anger, depression, inappropriate sexual behavior, poor self-esteem, difficulty with close relationships and substance abuse.

Kern County’s Child Protection Services (CPS) responds to the needs of children who are alleged to have been sexually abused and ensure they are safe. If you suspect sexual abuse or if a child tells you about abuse, call the Child Abuse Hotline (661) 631-6011. Remember that you may be the only person in a position to help a child who is being sexually abused.

Resources:

• STOP IT NOW!
• Talking to Your Kids and Teens About Sexual Abuse
• Internet Safety
• Age-Appropriate Sexual Behavior
• Don’t Wait: Everyday Actions to Keep Kids Safe
• Warning Signs in Children and Adolescents of Possible Child Sexual Abuse
• Behaviors to Watch for When Adults Are With Children
• Signs That an Adult May Be At-Risk to Harm a Child
• Signs That a Child or Teen May Be At-Risk to Harm Another Child
• Age-Appropriate Sexual Behavior
• What is Considered Child Sexual Abuse?
• Male Sexual Assault
  …Read More

Learn More About Local Efforts To Build Strong Families & Protect Children

• Matt needed help, and nobody noticed (Bakersfield Californian)
• California Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training
• Kern Cares 2011/2012 Calendar
• TEEN PREGNANCY: Especially vulnerable to pregnancy: foster youth (Bakersfield Californian)
• 2011 Kern County Report Card

Contact Kern County Network for Children for more information!
Mail: 1300 17th St.
Physical: 1212 18th St.
Bakersfield, CA 93301

Phone: 661-636-4488
Fax: 661-636-4501