Twenty-five percent of girls and 16 percent of boys experience sexual abuse during their childhood, according to one study cited in a report released Thursday by the Missouri Task Force on the Prevention of Sexual Abuse of Children.
The report outlines 22 recommendations to the governor, General Assembly and state board of education involving child sexual abuse in the state.
The recommendations fall within seven subject areas: community-based child abuse prevention, professional training and technical assistance, multi-disciplinary team excellence, mental health services and treatment, awareness, funding and statutory changes.
"The report is a blueprint for action," said Joy Oesterly, task force presiding officer and executive director of Missouri KidsFirst. "Addressing child sexual abuse and meeting our duty to protect children demands the cooperation and action of individuals, organizations, elected officials and the General Assembly."