If someone affiliated with the Boy Scouts sexually abused you or someone you know, there are several actions you can take. The first course of action should be to protect your immediate safety and health. This could include medical care if needed and reporting any cases of abuse to authorities.
In the aftermath of abuse, it may be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional to assess emotional damage and develop a plan for ongoing care. Many sexual abuse survivors experience emotional trauma as a result of their abuse that can last a long time. Seeking early treatment and intervention can improve the long-term outlook for recovery.
Sometimes survivors choose to take legal action against their assailant. You might want to explore your legal options to see if you can file a sex abuse claim based on your situation. Some people are entitled to financial compensation for various forms of loss and suffering.
Individuals Who Are at Risk for Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse encompasses any non-consensual behaviors of a sexual nature. Sexual abuse can happen once or be reoccurring for victims. While anyone could be sexually abused, some people are more at risk than others.
Demographics, like children or the elderly, are sometimes targeted by predators due to mental, physical, and developmental vulnerabilities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys experience sexual abuse before they turn 18.
Sex Abuse Cases Against the Boy Scouts
The Boy Scouts of America is a non-profit organization founded in 1910. The mission of the organization is to prepare youth to make “ethical and moral decisions.” Millions of children have been involved with the various programs offered by the Boy Scouts.
Although the Boy Scouts receive large amounts of money from private donors, corporate partnerships, and other sources, in recent years, the Boy Scouts of America have experienced financial difficulties. In 2020, they even filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy with the federal government.
One reason for the financial stress is sexual abuse lawsuits. Hundreds of survivors have filed Boy Scout sex abuse lawsuits for the abuse that occurred while they were a member of the organization. As of April 2019, the Boy Scouts’ records state that more than 12,000 children were abused sexually while they were a member of the organization, according to NPR. If you or someone you love was involved with the Boy Scouts and experienced sexual abuse, you have the option of getting legal help.
Effects of Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse can cause physical and emotional suffering for victims. Some of the effects of sexual abuse include:
- Traumatic injuries
- Unwanted pregnancy
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Decreased self-esteem
- Loss of trust
- Sudden personality changes
- Nightmares and sleeping difficulties
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Flashbacks
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
- Substance abuse
- Inability to maintain healthy relationships
If someone in your life was affected by sexual abuse in the Boy Scouts, there are several ways you can support them.
Ways to Support Survivors Who Have Been Sexually Abused
You can support sexual abuse survivors in your life in different ways. Being open and communicative and creating a safe space for them to share their story is one way to help. If they have not yet reported their case of sexual abuse to the authorities, you can also help them report this crime, with their permission.
The recovery from sexual abuse is complicated, and medical professionals should direct it. Researching and providing potential doctors, therapists, and others who can help sexual abuse survivors is another way you can be there for them.
In some cases, people choose to take legal action against their abusers. Understanding the legal options for victims can help alleviate the stress of navigating the legal process, and sometimes result in compensation for any suffering due to the abuse. While money can never make up for the pain you suffered, it can help with the ongoing costs. Some losses you could recover in compensation include:
- Medical costs
- Transportation costs
- Past and future lost wages
- Therapy costs
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
This is not an exhaustive list of the types of compensation you might be entitled to. For an estimate of what you could recover from a sexual abuse lawsuit against the Boy Scouts of America, speak with a sexual abuse attorney who can help.
Contact Us If You Have Been a Victim of Boy Scout Sexual Abuse
If you are considering taking legal action or learning more about the process, Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is available to discuss your case. If someone affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America sexually abused you or someone you know, there is potentially available compensation depending on the specific situation. Call (800) 794-0444 today to speak with a sexual abuse lawyer.