On the surface, the Penn State scandal would seem to be another example of an institution of trust failing in its moral obligation to protect children. In fact, what the tragic web of human actions and inactions behind this outrage really shows us is that child sexual abuse is close to the perfect crime. As [...]

Filed under: Child Abuse by PaulM
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Over the last few weeks, grand juries in Clay and Jackson counties in Missouri have convened to investigate how the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph has dealt with the problem of priests who sexually abuse minor parishioners. The investigations center on the arrest of Reverend Shawn Ratigan, who was arrested on federal child pornography charges [...]

Filed under: Child Abuse, Clergy Abuse by PaulM
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This post is the second of a two-part series on how child molesters operate. Read part one, “Common Sexual Abuse Myths.” Once a parent realizes that child sexual abuse is most often perpetrated by a known and trusted adult, the next step is to learn how child molesters typically operate. When you understand the process [...]

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This post is the first of a two-part series on how child molesters operate. Check back next week for part two, “Common Patterns.” As an attorney and children’s rights advocate who has advocated on behalf of sexually abused children for decades, I am often asked by parents and others: How can I protect my child [...]

Filed under: Child Abuse by PaulM
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In my work as a child abuse lawyer, I often come across the following questions: Why do abused children remain silent? Why do they not report to trusted adults such as their teachers or police officers what is done to them behind closed doors? First and foremost, sexually and physically abused kids are simply too [...]

Filed under: Child Abuse by PaulM
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