Die opvoeding van die seksueel–gemolesteerde dogter binne skoolverband
Abstract
The aim of this investigation serves a dual purpose. In the first instance to investigate the education of the sexually-abused girl within the confines of the school curriculum by means of an expanded literature study.
Secondly an empirical study was undertaken to obtain valuable information on sexual abuse and sex education amongst girls. Questionnaires were sent out to all Afrikaans medium secondary schools in the Transvaal.
It was found that cases of sexual abuse are still increasing, in spite of media exposure and public awareness of this serious crime. Often, the victims do not disclose the fact that they have been sexually abused mainly because they experience feelings of shame and guilt. Sexual abuse causes serious damage to children's self esteem, their ability to develop normal social and sexual relationships in adolescence and adulthood is impaired and the ability to develop their academic potential in school is interfered with. It became evident that sex education from an early age can play a valuable role in preventing sexual abuse of a child. The lives of children are very different from two decades ago and society is experiencing a morality crisis. Teenagers become sexually active at a much younger age. They are bombarded with sex information supplied by the media and misinformed peers. It is of utmost importance that the adolescent girl should know how to handle her sexuality. Although schools have a role to play in sex education, it is generally agreed that it is the parent's responsibility in the first place. A
positive parent role model is important for the sexual development of the child. Continuous communication between parent and child is vital. Girls should be taught to protect themselves. Unfortunately it is a responsibility that the majority of parents neglect, making the involvement of schools of great importance. As personal safety curricula became a part of school education, more children are reporting incidences of
sexual abuse. It is very important that parents and teachers should handle disclosures of sexual abuse in an appropriate and sensitive manner. Ongoing support should be given to children experiencing the aftermath of sexual abuse. Over a period of time sexually abused victims should be helped to build a sense of a positive self-image. With encouragement they begin to establish meaningful relationships with friends and leave the abusive experience behind them. There is a growing need for a concerted effort to educate children about the problem of sexual abuse. Teachers, in particular, are challenged to play an active role in this
effort. We owe it to our children!
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