Sexual abuse is a very common and widespread problem in the United States. Around 80,000 cases of child abuse are reported each year. (“Child Sexual Abuse,” 2011) However, these figures may not be accurate due to underreporting. The most common types of sexual abuse are incestuous abuse, extra-familial abuse, pornography, prostitution, sex rings, cults or sexual abuse within institutions. It is estimated that 60-70% of all sexual abuse occurs within the family. Victims can be male or female, but female victims are most commonly reported. The authors can be men or women, but they are predominantly men. Sexual abuse can have lasting mental and physical effects on children. These effects can vary in severity depending on the type and duration of the sexual abuse. (Crosson-Tower, 2013)Child Sexual AbuseSexual abuse is a very common and widespread problem in the United States. Around 80,000 cases of child abuse are reported each year. (“Child Sexual Abuse,” 2011) However, these numbers may not be accurate. Many cases of sexual abuse go unreported. “It is estimated that one in four women are victims of sexual abuse during their childhood” (“Definitions, scope and”). The true number of male victims of sexual abuse is vastly underestimated, but it is estimated that "one in six men may be victims of sexual abuse as children" ("Definitions, Scope and,"). The effects of abuse on children are long-lasting and can cause problems in the child's adult life. It is very important to understand how to recognize sexual abuse, what steps can be taken to help stop the abuse, and what help is available for the child. (Crosson-Tower, 2013) Sexual abuse is defined as any sexual activity with a child that is u...... middle of paper ...... in order to help reduce this problem, children should be educated on what sexual abuse is and how to report it if it happens to them. Many children don't realize that what is happening to them is bad because they don't know any different. The abuser may also tell them that what they are doing is completely normal. With proper education, children would know that no one is supposed to touch them in a sexual manner. More parents and guardians need to be informed about the signs of child sexual abuse. If they can recognize these signs, they may be able to uncover the abuse and stop it. Many cases of sexual abuse go unreported due to shame, guilt, and not knowing that what is happening is wrong. However, with more education in schools and at home, these cases could be reported earlier, before significant abuse occurs..