Signs Of Clergy Abuse To Watch Out For In Children
As parents, we are responsible for protecting our children from all forms of harm, including clergy abuse. Unfortunately, clergy abuse is a growing problem in our society, and it is essential to know the warning signs so that you can take action if necessary.
According to an annual report by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection, there were more than 4,200 allegations of clergy sexual abuse of minors in a 12-month period in 2020.
If you suspect that your child has become a victim of clergy abuse, do not hesitate to get legal counsel. Our Seattle clergy abuse lawyers at Emerald Law Group will stand up for your and your child’s rights to get the justice you deserve.
Signs of Clergy Abuse to Watch Out for in Your Child
Below, we will discuss some of the signs to watch out for that may indicate your child has been a victim of clergy abuse.
Signs of Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is one of the most recognizable types of abuse and it can take many forms. Look out for any physical signs on your child’s body, such as bruises, cuts, or burns. If your child reports that they have recently been hurt by someone in a position of religious authority, it is important to take them seriously and investigate further.
Signs of Psychological Abuse
Psychological abuse can be more difficult to detect than physical abuse because it doesn’t always leave visible marks. It can include things like emotional manipulation and verbal threats made by someone in a religious position. If your child appears withdrawn or anxious around certain people or when talking about religious topics, these could be signs that something isn’t right. It’s also critical to look out for any changes in your child’s behavior, such as frequent crying or sudden outbursts.
Signs of Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse from someone in a religious position is particularly concerning as it often involves an extreme breach of trust. Look out for any changes in your child’s behavior, such as avoiding certain people or places, refusing to participate in religious activities, or expressing fear when discussing certain topics related to religion. They may also exhibit physical symptoms such as pain or discomfort during urination/bowel movements, bleeding from genital areas, etc., which need immediate medical attention.
It is essential that parents remain vigilant and aware of the warning signs associated with clergy abuse so they can protect their children from potential harm. Keeping communication open with your children and letting them know that they can come to you for help is one way to ensure their safety against all forms of harm—including clergy abuse.
Discuss Your Legal Options with Emerald Law Group
If you suspect that your child may have been a victim of clergy abuse, act quickly and seek help from both medical professionals and law enforcement officials who are experienced in handling cases like these. You should also contact a knowledgeable lawyer to help you determine your legal options. Our clergy abuse lawyers at Emerald Law Group can help you hold the abuser accountable and ensure that you obtain a just outcome. Call 206-826-5160 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
Source:
usccb.org/resources/CYP%20Annual%20Report%202020.pdf
