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Community Corner

Penn State Scandal Brings More Awareness to Child Molestation

The abuse of power and trust violated through the incident at Penn State has seemed negative, but has it brought some closure to the victims?

The Penn State child sexual abuse scandal has brought more awareness to child molestation and its effects. Parents who have heard of the scandal most likely have a heightened sense of fear about their children when not under their supervision. Unfortunately in this case, the victims preyed upon were less fortunate and a worthwhile organization that probably had a positive influence on the majority of young people, was undermined by one individual. A leader both for the organization and in the community.

According to the Rape Crisis Volunteers of Cumberland County website, sexual assault has psychological, emotional and/or physical effects on victims that can be brief or last a long time. There is no normal reaction to sexual assault.

Sexual assault can cause depression, flashbacks, rape trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder and/or sexually transmitted infections.          

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Childhood sexual assault can harm adult survivors in a different or stronger way. Survivors may set limits or boundaries, feel anger, grieve, feel shame, have trouble with trust, develop negative coping skills with alcohol and drugs, experience a lack of self esteem and/or have difficulties in relationships.

If you suspect a child is being abused, contact the Department of Social Services (Child Protective Services) at (910) 677-2450, Womack Department of Social Work at (910) 907-7869 or the Provost Marshal Office on Fort Bragg at (910) 396-0391.

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