Hi Esthersvirtue,

I guess from my perspective, when somebody hurts a child sexually, it is both things at one time - both rape *and* abuse. I think it is very rare for a child to try to refuse the sexual contact from an adult - most children are far too frightened to do so, I think, in addition to not understanding what is happening. The other hard thing is that even when a child does try to say "no," I suspect it has little effect, because the adults are in power - which is why it is both rape and abuse. I wish it weren't so, and these things didn't occur in the first place...to anybody....it's such a difficult thing. :-( Furthermore, it is the adult's responsibility to behave in kindness and to respect the child's body, and not do such things to the child in the first place.

My caring thoughts go out to all who are affected by sexual abuse in their histories. I know it's a very difficult and painful thing.

Take care,
ErinBear