Supporting Parents and Grandparents of Sexual Assault Victims

Coping Tips and Resources

Sexual assault of young women is a devastating crime that can have lifelong consequences for the victim. It is important to understand the perspective of parents and grandparents of sexual assault victims to provide them with the support they need.

Parents and grandparents of sexual assault victims often feel shame, guilt, and anger. They may blame themselves for not protecting their child, or they may feel angry at the perpetrator. Parents and grandparents need to know that they are not to blame for what happened to their child. Sexual assault is a crime that the perpetrator commits, and it is not the victim's fault.

Parents and grandparents of sexual assault victims may also feel a sense of helplessness. They may want to do something to help their child, but they may not know what to do. Parents and grandparents need to seek out support for themselves and their child. Many resources are available to help families cope with sexual assault, including counseling, support groups, and legal assistance.

If you are a parent or grandparent of a sexual assault victim, please know you are not alone. Many people care about you and want to help. Please reach out for support so that you can heal and move forward.

Here are some tips for parents and grandparents of sexual assault victims:

• Believe your child. If your child tells you that they have been sexually assaulted, believe them. Do not question their story or try to minimize what happened.

• Be supportive. Let your child know that you love them and are there for them. Offer to help them in any way that you can.

• Encourage your child to seek professional help. A therapist can help your child to process what happened and develop coping mechanisms.

• Be patient. Healing from sexual assault takes time. Be patient with your child as they go through this difficult process.

• Take care of yourself. You need to take care of yourself as well. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist.

Sexual assault is a serious crime that can have a devastating impact on victims. It is important to understand the perspective of parents and grandparents of sexual assault victims to provide them with the support they need.

National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800. 656.HOPE (4673)

Pamela Brown Beautiful Broken Vessels Marketing Chairperson