Sex crimes - sexual molestation - and kids!
A scary and horrific combination!
Stacey Honowitz, a regular on HLN, CNN, Fox and
MSNBC is also a leading state
prosecutor with over 17 years dedicated to the Sex Crimes and Child
Abuse Unit.
However most importantly one of her accomplishments is her two
educational books that serve to help parents, children, advocates and
others to finally talk about this difficult subject in a manner which is
comfortable for everyone.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Stacey Honowitz answered a few questions for me:
Q) What changes in a child's behavior should raise a red flag for parents?
Stacey: Some behaviors in small children are
nightmares, bed wetting, a constant need to be with you, a fear when you
go to change them, and a general fear of staying alone with the person
after they never had a problem before. I don't like to generalize,
because some of these behaviors are indicative of other issues, but
sometimes a decline of grades in older kids, and a lack of enthusiasm
for things warrant a discussion. It might not be abuse, but certainly if
something doesn't sit right with you, make sure and ask if they feel
uncomfortable about something and want to share it.
Q) What sorts of behaviors from an adult should raise a red
flag for parents to prohibit that adult from ever spending alone time
with their child?
Stacey: This really goes back to the first question
that you asked. Sometimes a person will pursue a child by engaging in
behaviors that the child will enjoy. Constant gift giving, a
relationship based on "
being friends" and "don't be afraid to tell me anything" coupled with an opportunity to spend "
alone" time with them.
Red flag number one, the person calls and communicates with the child
by phone or computer without you being present, and constantly asks you
if they can "
take your child" out for the day, or that they
would love to babysit while you do what you have to do. Most parents are
thrilled to have an adult take such an interest in their child, but
they must realize that many times there is an ulterior motive.
Q) If a parent is suspicious of an adult's behavior, what steps can the parent take?
Stacey: If any parent believes that another child
is being abused please do not feel like your are intruding by trying to
help. Most parents later on say "I thought something was happening but
it was not my place." It is your responsibility to alert either a family
member, school authority or protective services if you suspect some
type of abuse either sexual or physical. If you have a relationship with
that child there is nothing wrong with you questioning the child, and
asking "is everything okay" or "do you need my help with anything going
on at home." Better safe than sorry is a motto that really holds water.
For more information, order Stacey's books:
Genius With a Penis, Don't Touch!
My Private Parts Are Private
Learn more about Stacey Honowitz on her
website and follow her on
Twitter and
Facebook.
