National Statistics

Statistics on Child Sexual Abuse

1 In 3-4 girls will have been sexually abused by age 18. (Diana Russell. 1983: David Finkelhor. 1978: Vincent De Francis. 1969)

Young females are four times more likely than any other group to be the victims of sexual assault, and the least likely to report their victimization. (The National Crime Victimization Survey 2004)

90% of offenders are known to the child. Child sexual abuse is more frequent within families than outside families. (Sexual Assault Center. Seattle: National Council for Prevention of Child Abuse. 1979)

Child sexual abuse is seldom a one-time occurrence. Abusive relationships last an average of 4 years, and many last much longer than 4 years (National Center for Prevention of Child Abuse. 1979)

The average age for the onset of a sexually abusive relationship is 6-8 years old. (Sexual Assault Center. Seattle: Child Protective Services, Seattle: Department of Health and Hospitals, City of Boston, 1984 )

At least 65-75% of prostitutes were sexually abused as children. (Boyer & James. 1982: Enablers Study, Minneapolis. '980: C. Henry Kempe Center. Denver)

Offenders almost never seek treatment voluntarily. Abuse will most likely continue unless a report is made. (Groth, 1979)