Sexual abuse of children has been going on forever. The only difference is that we are educated about it. It has only been since Oprah publicly admitted her abuse that it has been talked about.
For example, In the 1800 children were treated like adults -they were to "be seen , not heard" They were sent off to work in dangerous places. They also couldn't get pregnant.
I can only imagine what sort of liberties slave owners took upon children. I watched an old movie set in Jamaica a few months ago on TV. There was a scene where they had a little boy at the end of a slave owners bed used as a human foot warmer. Something told me that was not the boys only role.
So this horrific stuff is NOT talked about. Most survivors of childhood sexual abuse blame themselves - they always believe they could have stopped it. Therefore it is never admitted - never talked about. The survivor most likely turns to drugs and alcohol to mask their pain.
If people remain ignorant to the ramifications of sexual abuse it will continue.
The more I think about it the more I believe that the rampant homophobia in Jamaica has something to do with this. The homophobia seems to be a legitimate fear of sodomy.
Jitters, I am so very saddened to hear you had to witness that on your hard earned vacation. I would not be able to shake that - I would come home depressed rather than rejuvenated. That poor girls childhood is over. I dont suppose she will know any other life besides that of a hooker.
Jamaica is so bitter sweet -