Child sexual abuse: An Indian perspective

Child sexual abuse has its influence on multiple dimensions through crises in lawful, social, medical, and psychological matters. While child sexual abuse involves the child in a physical deed, its harmful developments are predominantly shown in the child's psyche. Its considerable risk factors for developing psychopathology lie not just in childhood and adolescence, but also into adulthood. Child sexual abuse is highly under-reported in India, which has attained epidemic proportions. It is still seen as a taboo, creating a sense of discomfort where most communities try to hide, ignore, or mistrust the accusations. In healthcare, it thus becomes paramount to understand the warning signs, the likelihood of revelation while interviewing, and the dynamics of the family about culture and implications that can come along with the abuse. With a keen understanding of the types of abuse and an awareness of the proceedings after the disclosure, safety can be targeted.