Every 9 minutes, Child Protective Services substantiates or finds evidence for a claim of child sexual abuse.
Of all victims under 18, 66% are ages 12-17.
One in nine girls under the age of 18 experience sexual abuse or assault.
One in twenty boys under the age of 18 experience sexual abuse or assault.
Females ages 16-19 are four times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape or sexual assault.
Of all victims under 18, 34% under age 12.
Survivors are three times more likely than non-victims to experience a major depressive episode as adults.
Survivors are four times more likely than non-victims to develop symptoms of drug abuse and to experience PTSD as adults.
Source: Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN). Accessed June 2025.
What is child sexual abuse?
Sexual abuse is any interaction between a child and an adult (or another child) in which the child is used for the sexual stimulation of the perpetrator or an observer. Sexual abuse can include both touching and non-touching behaviors. Non-touching behaviors can include trying to look at a child’s naked body, exhibitionism or exposing the child to pornography.
How do I know if my child has been sexually abused?
If they tell you, they have been! Children do not make up stories about being molested out of the blue. This is the most reliable symptom of molestation.
How can I help keep my child stay safe?
We recommend these books, posters, and other tools to help foster age-appropriate conversations.
