My stepdaughter was sexually abused by her mother's boyfriend. She told her mother many times over the 3-4 years it was happening, but was called a liar and often punished. Eventually, her mother told a relative, who called the police and CPS. While my stepdaughter was with us for the summer, her mother went on the run with the boyfriend, bringing their young child with, who had since disclosed his own abuse. She sent emails to family saying that she still didn't believe her child.
She eventually returned when the boyfriend kicked her out so he wouldn't get caught. We had already gotten temporary custody and we're working on making it permanent.
Recently, the mother made up accusations against me and got what she was looking for, temporary custody of my stepdaughter back. We've proven all of these allegations false and have professional reports backing us up.
What I am now looking for is scientific articles about how childhood neglect & abuse affects children, especially those who report sexual abuse and aren't believed. My stepdaughter hasn't been in counseling since moving with her mother, and we've seen all the progress we've made with her disappear. She's is the same scared, fragile little girl she was before she was believed. She is not being respected, and we believe she is still being neglected and possibly abused. No one is checking in on her. We just want to do what is best for her. If you could help point me in the right direction, I would be very grateful.
Thanks,
Concerned Stepmom
