He has presented sexual abuse information to a variety of audiences at the local, state, and national level. Mr. Merrick created this web site in order to provide information and resources to children and their families who may not otherwise get the help that they are in need of.
I bear an awful secret, it hurts to tell the truth.
I trusted you my mentor, and you robbed me of my youth.
That carefree childhood innocence for me is long since gone.
I will never forget what you did to me, but still I must go on.
To live my life as best I can, a smile my fascade.
How could you look me in the eye and tell me there's a God?
Your illness made you weak inside, it sickens me to know,
how much I begged and pleaded, but you wouldn't let me go.
A nightmare I must live with all my days upon the earth.
To satisfy your lustful urge...is that all I was worth?
The lives destroyed aren't mine alone, this touches everyone.
Family and friends and future love...my unborn daughter or son.
I'm safe in my home, and I'm safe in my bed.
This Mantra repeated again in my head.
It will never be over, it will never be through.
This scar on my life that was put there by you...
Read another poem here !
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Children need to be touched, hugged, and nurtured by people they love and trust. Touch is a basic need and is one of our basic senses. As parents or caregivers of young children, we must ensure that our children are exposed to healthy touches, and give them information and education to protect themselves from those people who would take advantage of our children's vulnerabilities.
For example, did you know that the offender is someone the child knows more than 90% of the time ?
Information and education are keys in order to prevent sexual abuse. Child sexual abuse is not an impulsive act. It is a planned and calculated act by the offender. Parents can play an active role in order to minimize the chance that their child will be sexually victimized. For more information on how you can help, click on the link below:
You may also want to check out available sexual offender registries in order to further protect your child from individuals living in your community that pose a risk to your child here.
What is child sexual abuse ?????
What behaviors may indicate that a child is being sexually abused ?????
What affect or effect does sexual abuse have on children?????
Why is it difficult for children to talk about sexual abuse ?????
What to do if your child discloses sexual abuse ?????
Where else can I go for more information on child sexual abuse ?????
How do I take care of myself ?????
What are some suggestions for reducing stress in my life ?????
Other questions and answers ?????
VIEW THE FOLLOWING FREE ARTICLES ON HOW YOU CAN HELP AS PARENTS
PARENTING CHILDREN SURVIVING SEXUAL ABUSE
by Merrick and Allen
VARIABLES ASSOCIATED WITH POSITIVE TREATMENT OUTCOMES FOR CHILDREN SURVIVING SEXUAL ABUSE
by Merrick, Allen, and Crase
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REMEMBER TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF !!!
Read Short Stories of Inspiration and Humor here !!
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If you live in southeastern Iowa and are in need of counseling, educational, or remedial services for children and families surviving child sexual abuse, you may contact me at 641-683-3567
Additional Resources
Child Protection Guide
Recommended Books/Articles
Mandy
Please feel free to email me any comments concerning this website.
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