Abused Quote by Carolyn Ainscough
““I am disgusted that I was often taken into their bed and told to do things to both of them. The things a decent parent wouldn't think of. I didn't know that having sex with her or with him was wrong because I'd never known anything else but I never understood why it used to hurt so much. It carried on right until she died and I am sure that if she was still alive it would still be going on now. I wished someone would help me and stop them hurting me. I tried to do what they told me to do because somethings they were nice to me if I did it properly." - Graham talks about being sexually abused by his mother (and her boyfriend) Graham was sexually abused by his mother. The only person who showed him any affection in his childhood was his grandmother. "My mother always told me the police would think I was a 'dirty little bastard' if I told them and they would take me away to a children's home and I would never see grandmother again." "I knew it was my fault and nobody would believe me." - Graham Children often do not tell about abuse because of their fears about how other people will respond. The most common fear is that they will not be believed, It is a child's word against an adult's and the adult may be well liked and respected in the community. Nowadays, because of the television and newspaper coverage, people are aware that child sexual abuse does happen. In the recent past it was thought to be a rare occurrence, so even if they were trusted adults around for a child to tell, the adult would probably have found it difficult to believe and would have little idea what to do about it.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Personal testimony on sexual abuse, 2020s
A survivor recounts childhood sexual abuse, fear of disbelief, and the lasting trauma that persists into adulthood.
In simple terms: A child suffers abuse and feels unheard.
Seek support and believe survivors.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- counseling sessions
- legal reporting
- support groups
- educational workshops
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can communities better support victims?
- What steps can break the cycle of silence?
Stigma and fear often prevent disclosure and aid.