Responding to an Adult’s Disclosure of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Disclosing childhood sexual abuse can be very challenging and the survivor may feel fear, shame, and anxiety. Your response to an adult’s disclosure of sexual abuse that happened in childhood may be the first step in the healing journey for that person.

Making a disclosure is a time of stress for the survivor and they may fear an adverse reaction from you. Emotions may be overwhelming, and you may feel ill-equipped to respond. It is important to remember, however, that this person is trusting you and expecting a response that is safe and respectful.

What to do if an adult discloses childhood sexual abuse to you

• Try and stay calm and listen carefully to all they say.
• Be patient with them.
• Tell them you believe them and it’s not their fault.
• Let them know you will do everything in your power to help them.
• Offer to assist them in seeking help with their well-being if that is what they are needing.
• Do not force them to talk about it – it is up to them to choose when and to whom they talk.
• Let them know you are there for them if they want to talk.
• Support them in identifying their options for reporting and listen to their decisions.

If the person decides they want to report the abuse to Police, offer to give moral support by being with them when they make the report (including an online report). At times, survivors do not feel confident about reporting historical childhood sexual abuse. You can offer to assist them by reporting the abuse online on the Police website. By law (Criminal Code 2021) historical childhood sexual assaults by adults on a child when disclosed by an adult (over 18 years old) must be reported unless you do not have their knowledge and consent. Therefore, if you are reporting on their behalf online to the Police then you must have their consent to do so.

If the person is disclosing institutional childhood sexual abuse please see our information on Redress procedures to identify options for the person.

If you require any further information, please don’t hesitate to call Bravehearts’ Information and Support Line on 1800 272 831 between the hours of 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday (AEST). If you require assistance outside of these hours, please call 1800 RESPECT.