Sexual Abuse of Minors at School and Camps Is a Growing Concern for Parents

Console and Associates, P.C.
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Parents often report that one of the most challenging parts of raising children is balancing the desire to protect them with a recognized need to foster independence and growth. Many parents go to great lengths to provide their children with the skills and tools necessary to avoid unsafe situations. However, children are inherently vulnerable to predators, and even with the utmost diligence and protection, parents may find themselves navigating the aftermath of sexual abuse.

Child sexual abuse is arguably one of the most extreme violations a child or young adult can experience. It is exceptionally disturbing when these events occur at the hands of those supposed to teach, protect, and guide children. Schools and camps are in a unique position to ensure that children are safe; however, sadly, many facilities fail to take this responsibility seriously. As we’ve discussed in prior posts, parents whose children have been sexually abused at school or camp have rights against the abusers and anyone else responsible for creating the dangerous situation that allowed a predator to victimize a child. A child sexual abuse attorney can work with parents to determine liability and the appropriate compensation in the wake of sexual assaults at camps and schools.

What Are the Signs of Sexual Abuse at a School or Camp?

Various red flags may indicate that your child suffered sexual abuse at school or camp. These signs vary depending on the child’s age, background, and development.

  • Younger children: may show signs of abuse by imitating sexual acts with toys, refusing to take off their clothing, exhibiting sudden bedwetting or nightmares, or having sexually transmitted infections.
  • Older children: may have sudden changes in their eating patterns, develop anxiety or depression, show self-harming behaviors, or suddenly have money.

Signs of sexual abuse common in all age groups include sexual fixation, nightmares, mood swings, and unexplained avoidance of certain activities, people, or situations. While these signs do not always indicate sexual abuse, they should be addressed.

What Should Parents Do if Their Child Was Abused at Camp or School?

Hearing or suspecting that your child has suffered abuse can elicit a slew of emotions. Coping with the shock of sexual abuse can manifest in various ways. However, parents should try and remain calm and provide their children with a safe space to disclose their abuse. Parents should convey that they believe their child, do not blame the child and will take all the steps necessary to protect and prevent further abuse.

Similarly, Parents who suspect unconfirmed abuse should approach their child in a way that will allow the child to have an open, meaningful, and age-appropriate conversation. Preparing to broach the subject is only part of the equation; parents should consider their potential response and action. These conversations can serve an essential evidentiary role if the parent decides to pursue civil sexual abuse claims against a school or camp.

Steps to Take After Learning About Camp or School Sexual Abuse

Reporting sexual abuse can be overwhelming and evoke complicated feelings, especially if the child is embarrassed or if the abuser has threatened the child. However, all cases of confirmed or suspected child abuse should be addressed. There are certain steps parents can take after discovering their child suffered abuse at the hands of a camp counselor, teacher, or instructor.

While there is no standard order that these events should occur, they should be done as soon as possible. Some critical steps include:

  • Contacting the child’s pediatrician for an evaluation and potential referral to a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE);
  • Contacting law enforcement or the local Child Protection Agency;
  • Consulting with a personal injury attorney; and
  • Seeking counseling, therapy, or psychological services for the child and parents.

A pediatrician or SANE nurse can evaluate the child to determine whether they experienced any life-threatening injuries. In addition, the evaluation results can be used to substantiate the child’s reports for any future legal claim. However, parents should understand that abuse can occur in various ways, and many abusers take steps to conceal evidence. A lack of medical evidence does not mean the child did not suffer the abuse they claim.

Reporting suspicions of child abuse to local police is crucial to protecting the child and other children from the abuser. Caregivers should understand that they will not be held liable for good faith reports of abuse, even if the allegations are false.

Moreover, a personal injury attorney can help parents understand their rights and remedies against the individuals or organizations responsible for their child’s abuse. While there is no specific “child sexual abuse” lawsuit, these incidents typically fall under other types of personal injury claims. Finally, a counselor, therapist, or psychologist can provide the child and parents with coping skills and treatment to overcome the effects of the abuse. Together these entities can ensure that the abuser is liable for their egregious conduct.

Legal Claims for Camp or School Sexual Abuse

The child or their legal caregiver can pursue a civil claim for child sexual abuse. In most cases, the child, represented by a guardian or parent, can pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault party. The child may seek damages for the physical, emotional, and psychological harm that the abuser’s conduct caused. In addition, the child’s parent or guardian may pursue a claim for their emotional distress or related damages from the abuser’s behavior.

The specific legal claim that a child sexual abuse lawsuit falls under depends on the facts and circumstances of the abuse. However, many camp and school abuse lawsuits involve civil claims for assault, battery, and intentional or negligent infliction of emotional distress. Additionally, other parties may be responsible for creating an unsafe environment or concealing the abuse.

DISCLAIMER: Because of the generality of this update, the information provided herein may not be applicable in all situations and should not be acted upon without specific legal advice based on particular situations.

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