Silence

Home: Survivors: Incest & Child Abuse: Sibling sexual abuse

Survivors of sibling incest often describe spending their childhood in fear, unable to tell anyone of their abuse for fear of being blamed, not believed or suffering retaliation.

This fear, along with shame surrounding the 'incest taboo', can mean the victim's silence extends over the years of childhood, and for some, continuing into adulthood.

For those who did speak out, many report being further harmed by their families response, with the abuse being ignored, excused or worse still, the victim blamed.

It's more common than you think

Sexual abuse by a brother or sister is not uncommon, with studies suggesting it is more common than parent-child incest. Some studies contend it is the most common form of child abuse.

Sponsor

South Western Centre Against Sexual Assault

Disclaimer Copyright Updated: 9 Oct 2009