Sexual abuse against children with disabilities often goes unreported
Pix for representational purpose only. — AFP
PETALING JAYA: Children with disabilities face a higher risk of falling victim to sexual abuse, and it is the duty of parents and caregivers to keep them safe, said child experts.
Power of Play (POP), an organisation that helps children express their inner worlds and allows them to have the courage to be themselves, said children with disabilities are four times more likely to experience sexual abuse and violence than non-disabled children.
POP co-creator Madeleine Yong said abuse against disabled children often goes unreported for several reasons, such as the need for help with personal care, an inability to report abuse due to communication difficulties, caregiver dependency and trust, lack of education regarding health sexuality and sexual abuse, as well as societal myths.