One of the most counterintuitive truths about sexual abuse: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Sexual Abuse Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of sexual abuse
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking sexual abuse is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging sexual abuse without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing sexual abuse to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for sexual abuse while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Sexual Abuse
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting sexual abuse, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Sexual Abuse
Many people find that when they stop fighting sexual abuse and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of sexual abuse is partly the struggle against it.