Sexually abused children are typically inclined not to disclose their experiences due to feelings of guilt and shame, bonds of dependence upon the perpetrators and / or their inability to understand the sexual meaning of the abuse. Obviously, this situation is further aggravated if the perception and attitudes of adults toward children discourages girls and boys from expressing their feelings or experiences, either positive or negative. In that case children who are sexually abused are even less likely to share their trauma with their parents, teachers or relevant authorities. Conversely, adults who value children’s opinions and create an inclusive environment for children to express themselves will enable children to disclose all types of information freely without fear and ridicule, even in case of sexual abuse.

Sexual Abuse and exploitation of children has become a widespread phenomenon throughout the world. In recent years, there has been an increasing awareness on this issue among people in a lot of countries. The government of Bangladesh too appears to be recognizing the growing problem and has introduced tougher laws to prevent it, though its effective implementation is yet to be seen. However, while the focus is growing on the commercial aspect of sexual abuse and exploitation of children and measures and programs are being undertaken by governmental and non-governmental organization to combat it, there has been a tendency to neglect the non-commercial aspect of sexual abuse of children. Sexual abuse that is rampantly taking place within a child’s home and workplace; a form of sexual abuse which people at large are inhibited to address and often deny the existence of this problem by pushing it aside as a “stray incident”. Whereas children have been subjected to non-commercial sexual abuse for generations and which has been affecting their physical, emotional and psychological growth. Yet there is a deafening silence on this issue. A lack of awareness among children, their families and communities regarding child rights and the risk of sexual abuse increases children’s vulnerability.