| Summary: | The aim of this investigation serves a dual purpose. In the
first instance to investigate the education of the
sexually-abused girl within the confines of the school
curriculum by means of an expanded literature study.
Secondly an empirical study was undertaken to obtain
valuable information on sexual abuse and sex education
amongst girls. Questionnaires were sent out to all
Afrikaans medium secondary schools in the Transvaal.
It was found that cases of sexual abuse are still
increasing, in spite of media exposure and public awareness
of this serious crime. Often, the victims do not disclose
the fact that they have been sexually abused mainly because
they experience feelings of shame and guilt.
Sexual abuse causes serious damage to children's self
esteem, their ability to develop normal social and sexual
relationships in adolescence and adulthood is impaired and
the ability to develop their academic potential in school
is interfered with.
It became evident that sex education from an early age can
play a valuable role in preventing sexual abuse of a child.
The lives of children are very different from two decades
ago and society is experiencing a morality crisis.
Teenagers become sexually active at a much younger age.
They are bombarded with sex information supplied by the
media and misinformed peers.
It is of utmost importance that the adolescent girl should
know how to handle her sexuality. Although schools have a
role to play in sex education, it is generally agreed that
it is the parent's responsibility in the first place. A
positive parent role model is important for the sexual
development of the child. Continuous communication between
parent and child is vital.
Girls should be taught to protect themselves.
Unfortunately it is a responsibility that the majority of
parents neglect, making the involvement of schools of great
importance. As personal safety curricula became a part of
school education, more children are reporting incidences of
sexual abuse.
It is very important that parents and teachers should
handle disclosures of sexual abuse in an appropriate and
sensitive manner. Ongoing support should be given to
children experiencing the aftermath of sexual abuse. Over
a period of time sexually abused victims should be helped
to build a sense of a positive self-image. With
encouragement they begin to establish meaningful
relationships with friends and leave the abusive experience
behind them.
There is a growing need for a concerted effort to educate
children about the problem of sexual abuse. Teachers, in
particular, are challenged to play an active role in this
effort. We owe it to our children! === Thesis (MEd)--PU vir CHO, 1992
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