How to help my sister who was molested as a child?

ian: How to help my sister who was molested as a child?
My sister opened up to me and told me about it. She isn’t my real sister. Her dad has been sent to jail. We never really knew why she was self harming and attempting suicide we thought it was just bullying so we sent her to a counselor. Recently when she was cutting her self and we asked why she told us what her dad had done. I am scared that he did it to her 11 year old sister too. How can I ask an 11 year old if she was molested? Or should I not ask her (too personal) What should I do?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Genevieve
She should have an appointment with a trained professional child psychologist who knows what signs to look for and what questions to ask. Don’t do it yourself. You could put ideas in her head which are not her own and then all future investigation would become tainted.

Answer by Maybe
If you’re going to ask an eleven year if she was molested, bring up the topic gently, and while you’re on your own with her. Say, ‘Did you dad ever touch you in a way that made you feel uncomfortable?’

And as for the one that’s cutting, just let her know that you’re there. Sometimes, people want to be left alone, but everyone needs someone to fall back on. Just tell her, ‘I’m here for you, whatever happens.’

Answer by Pink Lady
You need to contact a professional counsellor or therapist, perhaps call an advice line, they will tell you what action to take next, you are doing the right thing. Many people have these experiences unfortunately. Perhaps take the child aside one day and tell her that if there is anything that she wants to tell you that she is worried about, then she can tell you in confidence, win her trust. That would be a start, chances are she is fine, what does her behaviour tell you?

The police might help or the citizens advice bureau too.

Answer by Shanie K.
Assure the older sis that you are there for her if she has any troubles (which she does). Those are the people who need to be held and comforted the most. Have a personal talk with her when you two are alone, and help her get over her fears. Go somewhere you both feel comfortable, and just have fun.

As for 11, just casually ask her when you two are alone if her dad has ever touched her in an uncomfortable way. And tell her you’re there if she needs you or someone to confide in.