Disclosure of Child Sexual Abuse

This presentation examines the true scope of child sexual abuse (CSA), emphasizing that official statistics capture only a fraction of affected children due to widespread underreporting. Dr. Michelle Cutland details the physical, developmental, and psychological barriers that prevent children from speaking out, while outlining how communication strategies vary across age groups and demographics. The session clarifies critical terminology, distinguishing between terms such as "disclosure," "allegation," and "telling" to encourage child-centered, trauma-informed documentation in professional settings. Furthermore, the webinar explores the dynamic between a child's internal need to communicate and the external opportunities created by observant adults, offering practical guidance on recognizing subtle behavioral indicators. By highlighting the pivotal role of initial empathetic responses, Dr. Cutland equips advocates, educators, and social service providers with actionable tools to better support children throughout the disclosure process.