Societal Costs of Sexual Abuse

The Societal Costs of Child Sexual Abuse

Many people are unaware of the true prevalence of sexual child abuse in society. While the true extent of sexual abuse inflicted upon children is unknown, one national survey estimated that 27% of women and 16% of men reported being sexually abused before turning 18. Most estimate that anywhere from 6 to 63% of women were sexually abused when they were children. (See the article “Child Abuse and Neglect Statistics from the National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse” for more information.)

But what effects does sexual child abuse have on society? Some have tried to express the effects in dollar amounts -- according to a study called the Total Estimated Cost of Child Abuse and Neglect in the United States, sexual abuse of children costs $94 billion annually. The study cites direct costs, such as hospitalization, chronic health problems, and law enforcement; and also cites indirect costs, such as the juvenile delinquency, special education needs, and criminal behavior that are much more common among childhood victims of abuse.

A Lawyer Fighting for Change

Mr. Kosnoff has represented hundreds of survivors of sexual abuse. He believes that a much of society’s ills can be traced to childhood sexual abuse. Mr. Kosnoff is working toward change, devoting his entire career as a lawyer to aggressively going after abusers and institutions that protect abusers. He appears on television, radio and in newspapers, publicizing the problem of child sexual abuse and unmasking those responsible.

Of course, in all of his work, Tim Kosnoff stands on the shoulders of thousands of courageous people and organizations fighting the epidemic of child sexual abuse in society. Mr. Kosnoff may have the experience and knowledge to take any individual or organization to court, but the true power lies with those who come forward with their stories and works with Mr. Kosnoff to bring abusers to justice.

Contact our Lawyer

Tim Kosnoff offers free initial consultations and is always ready to help anyone who believes they know about an incident of child sexual abuse. Please call Mr. Kosnoff at 425-837-9690 or 206-676-7610 within the Seattle area, or email him through this Web site’s contact page. He has a nationwide practice, with many cases centered in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.

Conversations will be kept confidential, and even if you are unsure about a lawsuit, Mr. Kosnoff can direct you to the assistance you need. You can trust Mr. Kosnoff to treat you with compassion and respect.

Articles:

• “Total Estimated Cost of Child Abuse and Neglect in the United States”
• “Child Abuse and Neglect Statistics ”