Predators Among Us

Summary: In this episode of True Emotion Dad, host Laverne Friesen engages in a profound conversation with Jacquie Aitken, a trauma clinician who has spent over 4 decades helping victims of abuse. They explore the complexities of trauma, the importance of healing, and the need for awareness and education surrounding sexual abuse. 

Jacquie shares her extensive experience in supporting victims and working with offenders, emphasizing the need for boundaries, empowerment, and the recognition of triggers. The discussion also highlights the alarming statistics surrounding sexual abuse and the societal stigma that often silences victims. This conversation delves into the complex issues surrounding childhood trauma, addiction, domestic violence, and the importance of support systems for victims. 

Jacquie Aitken shares insights from her extensive experience in the field, discussing the correlation between childhood experiences and later life challenges, the role of addiction as a coping mechanism, and the dynamics of abusive relationships. The discussion emphasizes the need for awareness, education, and advocacy to prevent abuse and support survivors in reclaiming their lives.

Takeaways

• The podcast aims to educate and inspire through authentic storytelling.
• Jackie Aitken has extensive experience in trauma support and community services.
• Victims of trauma need to heal, while offenders must take responsibility for their actions.
• There is a significant stigma surrounding sexual abuse that prevents open discussion.
• Not all victims of abuse become offenders; understanding this distinction is crucial.
• Healing from trauma involves taking back one's power and processing pain.
• Triggers from past trauma can manifest in present situations, requiring awareness and coping strategies.
• Setting boundaries is essential for protecting children from potential offenders.
• Education and awareness about sexual abuse are vital for prevention and support.
• Statistics reveal a high prevalence of sexual abuse, highlighting the need for societal change. If you had four or more adverse childhood events, you had twice the chance of cancer.
• Addiction is often a way to numb emotional pain.
• Addictions are not a choice; they stem from trauma.
• Intimate partner violence is predominantly male on female.
• Domestic violence correlates highly with addiction issues.
• Victims of abuse often feel isolated and controlled.
• Love bombing can create dependency in relationships.
• Generational trauma can perpetuate cycles of abuse.
• It's crucial to believe and support victims of abuse.
• Child Advocacy Centers play a vital role in supporting young victims.

Sound Bites

"Victims need to heal. Offenders need to change."

• "Not all victims are offenders."
• "You do not need to be a victim forever."
• "Offenders isolate victims so they can have access."
• "Change is hard."
• "People are shamed and silenced about it."
• "twice the chance of cancer."
• "ten times the chance of being a drug user."
• "believe them. Get help."
• "you deserve good friends."