Sexual harassment of children continues to plague our society. Sadly, it is not a new phenomenon. Often, the young victims of cruelty are unaware of the gravity of the situation they find themselves in. As they grow older and gain understanding, the psychological impact of such abuse takes a severe toll on their well-being.
Disturbingly, children are frequently subjected to sexual abuse by peers or individuals they know closely. This necessitates the urgent implementation of educational programs on "good touch" and "bad touch" from an early age.
In today's social context, it is paramount to instill a comprehensive understanding of the human body and personal boundaries in children. Parents are primarily responsible for educating their children about their "private parts" and emphasizing that these areas are off-limits to others. Any form of unwanted touch must be recognized as entirely unacceptable.
Experts recommend initiating age-appropriate conversations on this subject around age five, using language children can comprehend.
Establishing trust and open communication with the child is vital before broaching this sensitive topic. Parents should strive to create an environment where children feel safe expressing both positive and negative feelings.
‘Aunty, I'm in pain'
Gynaecology Professor Dr Nazlima Nargis from Ibn Sina Medical College and Hospital highlights the importance of teaching children to seek permission, even at a young age.
By fostering the habit of seeking consent during activities such as bathing or changing clothes, children learn that their private parts are not to be touched without permission. Furthermore, they should be encouraged to voice their objections to any harmful or inappropriate behaviour.
Dr Nargis stresses the significance of equipping children with self-defence skills to empower them in any situation.
However, Dr Nargis advises parents to approach this teaching process sensitively to avoid overwhelming the child or causing any misinterpretations.
Many children who have experienced abuse or rape struggle to comprehend the magnitude of what has happened to them, often experiencing severe physical and emotional pain. The long-lasting trauma inflicted on these children emphasizes the urgency of proactive measures.
Media reports indicate that no child is immune to potential abuse, underscoring the need for comprehensive awareness, regardless of gender.
Dr Nargis emphasizes that boys, too, fall victim to such heinous acts. She recalls the case of a 9-year-old boy who was brutally raped, covered in scratches all over his body, and only able to express his pain by saying, "Aunty, I am in pain."
Swimsuit rule
Psychiatrist Dr Wahida Parveen from Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) emphasizes the significance of early education about the human body.
She suggests introducing the "private parts" concept to children by using the "swimsuit rule," which teaches that the areas covered by a swimming costume are private. Children should be aware that only parents and doctors can touch these parts.
Dr Parveen advises parents to discern potential abuse through storytelling, paying attention to any mention of incidents involving unwanted touch, discussions about gifts, or attempts to engage in indecent behaviour. Although these incidents may seem insignificant to children at a young age, their impact can have far-reaching consequences for their well-being.
Dr Parveen further advocates for including lessons on "good touch" and "bad touch" in textbooks, ensuring that children receive a structured education on personal boundaries.
Parents' supportive attitudes
Parents play a critical role in shaping children's understanding of personal boundaries.
Rupa Barua, mother of a son and daughter, stresses the importance of teaching children early on about whom to trust and whom to avoid. She firmly believes that no one other than parents or family members should touch a child's body, laying the foundation for their safety and future well-being.
A concerned father, speaking anonymously, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the point that imparting such knowledge to children helps them identify and prevent victimization.
Many children become targets of harassment due to their limited understanding, and bullies often exploit their innocence, using play as a cover for indecent acts. These traumatic experiences not only cause mental anguish but also lead to a sense of insecurity and difficulty forming trusting relationships.
Parents' supportive and approachable attitudes towards these matters can significantly mitigate the negative impact on children, as failing to address such issues may have long-lasting consequences, including suicidal tendencies.
Jannatul Ferdaus, a mother, advocates for gender-neutral education, asserting that both boys and girls need to be taught about personal boundaries. The prevention of sexual abuse necessitates a clear understanding that no one, under any circumstances, should touch a child's sensitive body parts.
Law enforcement's fight
Law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in investigating and prosecuting child abuse cases.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of the Women Support and Investigation Division of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Sanjida Afrin, told Dhaka Tribune: "Understanding the difference between a good touch and a bad touch is not only a challenge for children but also for many families."
"Consequently, children frequently become victims of oppression and rape. It takes children until the age of 10 to fully comprehend certain aspects. We have partnered with eleven NGOs to address these issues."
She further explained: "In many instances, families of victims between the ages of 12 and 18 may have left the area due to the fear of dishonour. Others may contact us two or three days after the incident, unknowingly eradicating any potential evidence from the victim's body during that time. Consequently, we cannot proceed further due to the lack of evidence in the medical examination."
"These incidents predominantly affect impoverished and street children."
Afrin highlighted: "We also receive numerous cases involving boys. Recently, a 15-year-old boy was subjected to rape, and his condition was critical, including stomach rupture. However, his family chose not to take any action, fearing the potential consequences for their son's future. In cases involving boys, the police often find themselves unable to act due to family decisions. In addition to girls, the number of abuses against boys is constantly increasing."
According to the police officer, many child abuse cases occur due to family ignorance. It is not feasible to entirely eliminate such incidents through the efforts of the police or the law alone. Family and societal awareness play a pivotal role.
Afrin stressed the importance of monitoring the child's activities and acquaintances, saying: "It is essential to keep a watchful eye on the child's whereabouts and the people they interact with."
Police-NGOs' collaboration
To combat the sexual abuse of children, the police, in collaboration with several NGOs, have been conducting awareness programs.
Afrin explained: "NGOs strive to raise awareness about these issues by engaging victim families and counsellors. We closely monitor child abuse cases and provide psychological counselling to victims above the age of 12 who can comprehend and express their experiences. We refer to this initiative as the psychological counter."
The urgent need for early education on personal boundaries cannot be overstated in the fight against child sexual harassment. Parents, educators and society must work together to create a safe environment where children can grow without fearing abuse.
Comprehensive efforts involving law enforcement agencies, NGOs, and awareness programs are indispensable in protecting vulnerable children and ensuring perpetrators face legal consequences.
