Does Abused Grandson Need Therapy?
Question: My grandson was abused my his step-dad and has since been removed from that situation. How crucial is it that he receive therapy? Can some children do okay after such an experience without therapy? My ex-daughter-in-law doesn’t seem concerned. Answer: Unfortunately, most kids who have been physically, sexually, or emotionally abused by family members do not receive professional counseling. Most of this abuse is never reported by these children and they move through their lives deeply affected by this trauma. They suffer greatly, experiencing symptoms such as: significantly diminished self-worth; an inability to maintain trusting, loving relationships; chronic depression; sexual promiscuity; and chronic anger. Your ex-daughter-in-law should be concerned, regardless of whether her son is presently exhibiting troubling behavior. Of course, it’s possible for kids to “do okay” after being the victims of parental abuse. But doing “okay” in these cases cannot be measured simply by w
