Learning about abuse from a victim can be a traumatic experience for both parties. It is important to remain calm, empathetic, and compassionate. It can be very difficult, sensitive, and emotionally taxing for a victim to recount past experiences of abuse and share them with others.
If someone close to you was affected by the Boy Scouts abuse cases, you may ask yourself, “What do I do if I know someone affected by the Boy Scouts abuse case?” The most important thing you can do is offer the appropriate support and guidance, depending on the victim and situation.
An appropriate reaction is different in every case of abuse. If you know someone affected by the Boy Scouts abuse cases who may be sharing their experience for the first time, you should report any information suggesting evidence of the crime to the proper authorities.
Perhaps you know someone has already reported their incident or taken legal action. In these instances, it is beneficial to recognize that abuse can affect victims for a long time. In some cases, the trauma of abuse can permanently change a person and create a lifelong emotional battle.
One thing you can do is support the person you know by giving them emotional support and researching professionals or organizations specializing in the support of abuse victims in case the person in your life needs professional help.
Who Are the Boy Scouts of America?
The Boy Scouts of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1910, providing a number of programs and activities geared towards the enrichment of youth. While the Boy Scout of America only allowed males for decades, in recent years, they have incorporated the inclusion of girls, as well as those identifying as transgender, homosexual, and other groups previously excluded.
The Boy Scouts are not a religious organization, though there are many references to a God or higher power throughout organizational literature. The “Scout’s Oath” and “Scout Law,” for example, make direct reference to God. The mission of the Boy Scouts of America revolves around instilling moral values in the younger generation and enabling them to make healthy choices. While some children had positive experiences and benefited from the organization, some have endured abuse instead.
Boy Scout Abuse Cases
The question “What do I do if I know someone affected by the Boy Scouts abuse case?” has become sadly relevant, as several cases of sexual abuse in the Boy Scouts have come to light in recent decades, according to Reuters. While no two cases are alike, some claims indicate predatory behaviors of adults towards youth members. These lawsuits have significantly impacted the reputation and financial well-being of the Boy Scouts of America. Sexual abuse is a serious crime that can change the life of a victim forever.
Effects of Abuse on Victims
The effects of sexual abuse can be physical, mental, and emotional, according to the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care. While the temporary effects of sexual abuse include the potential for physical injury, many psychological effects of abuse manifest in victims over time.
Victims may experience anxiety, depression, inability to establish and maintain healthy relationships, and even suicidal thoughts. Victims can develop serious conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and require years of counseling and rehabilitation.
Abuse can leave financial stress on victims and families, too. Some victims affected by the Boy Scouts abuse case struggle to cover medical costs or remain unable to hold employment as a result of abuse. If you or someone you know was affected by the Boy Scouts abuse case, there are several ways you can get help.
Providing Support for Victims
The first thing you should do in the aftermath of an abusive incident is to protect the victim. This means reporting an incident to the appropriate authorities, ensuring the victim is safe, and assessing for any immediate medical needs. The recovery process can be long and arduous. There are also legal measures you can take to support victims.
Get Help Today
While every victim and case of abuse is unique, in some situations, victims decide to pursue legal action to help bring justice against perpetrators. While no amount of financial compensation can make up for an abusive encounter, sometimes victims receive compensation for their physical and emotional pain and suffering. Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is available if you are interested in learning more about the legal options for victims of Boy Scout abuse. Call (800) 794-0444 today.