Although shock is a common response to the
news that your child has been
abused, the presence and intensity of shock varies among mothers. The relationship of the
perpetrator, whether he is husband, partner, son, brother, father, neighbor, pastor or priest, or stranger affects the mother's response. If the perpetrator is a close family member, the mother will experience heightened
feelings of confusion and
ambivalence. Immediate
decision-making ability is impaired. This is normal.
Sometimes other people
involved with the family, such as social services, law enforcement, and other professionals, view this initial shock as a
sign that the mother cannot
care for the child. Shock may be construed as a sign that the mother is non-supportive to the child. If professionals hold this belief initially, an ongoing process of
mother blame may be initiated.
Lack of understanding regarding the mother's
normal response of shock and confusion can result in the mother getting stuck in the
denial stage. The mother's
grief process may be interrupted, interfering with her ability to regain emotional stability. This interferes with her ability to provide support to the victim. Because of shock, the normal first response of grief, mothers cannot initially make effective decisions and assume responsibility. This requires time and healing. What mothers need at this point is
support from friends, family, and involved agencies.