While the criminal justice system is fairly effective at punishing those who break the law, it generally does not provide much in the way of compensation for the victims of crime. Especially in the case of child sexual abuse, however, the long-term ramifications felt by victims can be substantial. These can include both direct and indirect economic losses as well as less tangible diminution of quality of life. And especially in very young children, many of these effects may not manifest until long after the abuse. It is important that parents understand the full extent of these effects before agreeing to any kind of settlement.
Even in the absence of physical injury, sexual abuse can give rise to numerous long term or permanent psychological disorders:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Substance abuse disorder
- Sexual dysfunction
- Borderline personality disorder
- Sleep disorders
- Dissociative disorders
- Anger disorders
In addition to requiring years of therapy to treat these various psychological issues, the increased stress associated with them can also manifest into physical ailments as time passes including hormonal imbalances and increased incidence of obesity.
Giving your child access to the resources he or she needs to overcome the effects of sexual abuse and maximize his or her quality of life can be an expensive proposition. That is why it is important to consider seeking civil relief, not only from the individual who actually committed the abuse but from any organizations or institutions that, through their own negligence, allowed the abuse to occur.
Your child’s medical providers as well as an experienced North Carolina attorney can help you fully account for the potential challenges your child will face and obtain appropriate compensation.