Periagoge
Scenario

How to show love to a trauma survivor who cannot accept physical affection

My fourteen-year-old was sexually assaulted and now flinches when I try to hug her and I do not know how to love someone who cannot bear to be touched.

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Trauma can make the most basic expressions of parental love feel like additional violations to a wounded child.

Your guide for this
Rabia
Rabia works with people navigating exactly this kind of situation.
Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Parenting a child with mental health challenges?”

Peri

Peri can explain why this happens, help you decide if this is the right situation for you, and point toward the right journey or coach.

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.