We tell those in authority to report abuse immediately and for kids younger than eighteen(?) that is the only tool we have to help. We should tell the over 18's they have a moral responsibility to all the younger to try to keep them from similar fates. It is sad that so many back away from moral judgments on harmful behavior. But sex and violence toward others no longer has any consequence. We aren't 'allowed' to question such behavior toward others and sometimes even laugh it off!

My daughter, 40's, brushed it off the other day when her daughter, my granddaughter, was disrespectful of a young woman's name. The young woman, a visitor in my home is from Russia and has a difficult name. On being told the name, my granddaughter tried it once then said, "Whatever your name is!" My daughter laughed. I was stunned, because my daughter would not have been allowed to get away without a "sorry" for her inconsideration. I think the moral stuff starts here. As trivial as this occurrence may seem it is how children learn unconditional respect. It is that respect, consideration for another's good, which will propel one to stop any harm, sexual or otherwise, to another. If there is no chance of stopping it at the time, at least it can be stopped for the next victim. My daughter allowed her daughter to get away with it, even gave her a laugh. What might be next? I regret not saying something myself right then but will do so next time it occurs.

C.