We’d like to believe that if a child is being hurt he or she would tell someone. Unfortunately may children do not tell and may even lie about their injuries from abuse for the following reasons:
- The perpetrator is someone they love; a parent, step-parent or other relative.
- They are ashamed and believe the abuse is their fault.
- They do not trust adults.
- They are afraid no one will believe them.
- They are not aware that what they are experiencing is abuse.
- They are afraid they will get in trouble.
- They are afraid they will get someone they love in trouble.
- They are afraid telling will cause the family to be broken up.
- They are trying to protect their parents.
- They were threatened not to tell.
