It’s impossible to describe a typical abuser. They look and act in various ways, can be found in all areas of society, and are often well-respected members of our communities. They may appear to be kind, caring people who are great with kids. Abusers work hard to cultivate this image—so people will not suspect them of, and will not believe it if they are ever accused of, sexually abusing children.

Here's what research tells us:

• Nearly all child sexual abuse is committed by people known to children and families, including:

  • Family members such as parents, stepparents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins; and
  • People in a family’s circle of trust such as friends, neighbors, teachers, or coaches.
     

• Most abusers are male — although females also sexually abuse children; and
   

• Over a third of abusers are under the age of 20.

Offenders vary in many ways. What they all have in common is this: they have thought about being sexual with children and have acted on those thoughts.

You may know someone who is sexually abusing a child.

Helpful Resources:

• Do Children Sexually Abuse Other Children? Preventing Sexual Abuse Among Children and Youth, published by Stop It Now!^®—a national, non-profit child protection and prevention center.
   
• STEP UP: Protect Children from Sexual Abuse, published by the Vermont Department for Children and Families.
   
• 2009 Report on Child Protection in Vermont, published by the Vermont Department for Children and Families.