For Parents

Child sexual abuse in Romania: cultural perception and social norms

Sexual abuse against children is a serious problem affecting many societies, including Romania. The perception and reporting of such abuse is influenced by a number of cultural and social factors that can determine how victims and communities react to such incidents. Although Romanian legislation has evolved to better protect minors, the cultural and social barriers to effective reporting and prevention of child sexual abuse still persist.

Cultural factors that influence the perception of child sexual abuse

  • Customs and patriarchal norms:
    • The patriarchal culture in Romania can contribute to the silent around child sexual abuse. In many cases, the shame and stigma associated with sexual abuse can prevent victims and their families from reporting the abuse. This is exacerbated by the tradition that family problems should be solved in private.
  • Lack of sexual education:
    • The lack of comprehensive sexual education in schools contribute to a insufficient knowledge of children rights and of the concepts of consent and abuse. This leaves many children not recognizing abuse or not knowing how to seek help.
  • Myths about abuse:
    • There are numerous myths and misconceptions about sexual abuse that can influence public perception. For example, the myth that abusers are mainly strangers and not family members or trusted people can make it difficult to recognize abuse in family contexts.
  • Gender stereotypes:
    • Deep-rooted gender stereotypes in Romanian society can affect how victims of sexual abuse are perceived. Boys who are victims of sexual abuse may be less likely to report because of stigmatization related to ideas of masculinity and associated shame.

 

Social norms and reporting child sexual abuse

  • Stigma and shame:
    • Sexual abuse is often associated with great shame and stigmatization. Families may be reluctant to report abuse for fear of being ostracized or suffering negative social consequences. Especially in rural communities, where communities are closely knit, shame and fear of social judgment can be even stronger.
  • Community role:
    • In many communities, pressure to maintain family reputation and honor may discourage reporting abuse. Social norms may dictate that parents should protect the family’s image, even at the cost of children’s suffering.
  • Authorities’ reaction:
    • Despite legislation protecting children’s rights, the authorities’ response to reports of sexual abuse can be inadequate. Lack of resources and training among authorities can lead to ineffective handling of abuse cases (ANES, 2019).

Sexual abuse of minors in Romania is a complex problem, influenced by deep-rooted cultural and social factors. Although legislation and public awareness have evolved, there are still significant barriers to effective reporting and prevention of abuse. It is essential to develop educational programs and improve access to support services to protect children and encourage reporting of abuse.

 

 

Article by Ramona Cîrcu, Activities coordinator

 

Bibliography:

Miroiu, M. (2004). Patriarhat și emancipare în mentalitatea românească. Polirom.

Wilma Rahmah Hidayati, Nurhafizah (2022). Introduction of Sex Education to Early Childhood: to Reduce Cases of Child Sexual Abuse

Agenția Națională pentru Egalitatea de Șanse între Femei și Bărbați (ANES). (2019). Raport privind violența domestică în România.