Silent1nomore
It is a brave step to take.
Most requirements for reporting abuse are governed by state laws concerning mandated reporters such as therapists, social workers and teachers. I know of no law that says a victim has to report it.
Of course it raises the moral question of whether reporting it might prevent some future kid from being abused.
In choosing to report, I think it is important to look at your own needs first, i.e.: are you ready to disclose and how will that effect you
Then weigh that against the urgency of going after the abuser, i.e.: how likely it is that the abuser will continue his abuse, his access to kids, his age, record of continuing his abuse of others.
Sometimes pursuing our abuser just for revenge can be disappointing because it ultimately doesn't really help the pain we feel.
I don't have the answers, but these are my thoughts on it. Please keep in touch with us here. We need each other and to know that we are not alone.
....t
