Healing Begins with Being Seen: Caring for Children Most at Risk

The Monthly Mindset - June 2026

Melanie Pignotti, LCPC, CAC Chief Executive Officer

Child sexual abuse remains one of the most pervasive threats to children’s safety, and while it can impact any child, some face significantly greater vulnerability. National data show that at least one in four girls and one in 20 boys experience child sexual abuse, though the true numbers are likely higher due to underreporting. Abuse crosses every demographic line, yet certain groups of children face elevated risks because of the environment and pressures surrounding their lives. 

Barriers to Safety 

Children who experience family instability, poverty, homelessness, disabilities or prior trauma are at higher risk of being targeted. Among these vulnerable groups, research shows that LGBTQ youth experience disproportionately high rates of sexual violence and adverse childhood experiences. This increased risk is not a result of identity itself, but of the conditions many LGBTQ youth face. Family rejection, social isolation, bullying and a lack of affirming adults can create environments where predators perceive these youth as less protected and less likely to disclose. Offenders often exploit secrecy, shame, or fear of being “outed,” making LGBTQ youth particularly vulnerable to manipulation and coercion. 

Barriers to Disclosure  

When abuse occurs, LGBTQ youth often face additional barriers to disclosure. Many fear being blamed, dismissed or misunderstood. Some worry that reporting abuse may reveal their identity before they are ready. Others have had negative experiences with adults or systems in the past, making it difficult to trust that they will be believed or supported. These barriers can delay disclosure for years, compounding trauma and reducing opportunities for early intervention. 

Barriers to Justice 

For those who do come forward, the path through the criminal justice system can be especially challenging. LGBTQ youth may encounter bias, a lack of cultural competence or questioning that focuses more on their identity than on the harm they experienced. These experiences can discourage participation in investigations or prosecutions, leaving youth without closure and allowing offenders to avoid accountability. Understanding these systemic barriers is essential to ensure that all children receive equitable access to safety, justice and healing. 

CAC Helps All Kids Overcome Barriers 

At CAC, we hold a simple but powerful commitment: we serve every child who needs us. Our work is grounded in compassion, empathy and the belief that healing is possible for all children regardless of identity, background or circumstance. Recognizing which children face the highest risks is not about labels; it is about awareness and protection. It is about ensuring that no child is overlooked, unheard or unsupported. 

As we move through this month and beyond, I invite us all to stay focused on what unites our mission: protecting children, supporting families and building communities where every child can thrive in safety and well-being.  

References 

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Preventing Child Sexual Abuse.” 

• The Trevor Project. “National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health.” 

• Human Rights Campaign Foundation. “LGBTQ Youth Report.” 

• U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. “Child Victimization Statistics.” 

• Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. “Adverse Childhood Experiences Among LGBTQ Youth.”