Some subjects are almost too painful to contemplate. And too difficult to share. This following story is one of them. But here at BroadAgenda we value the integrity of intent and research that has courageously brought this taboo subject to light. For that reason, and with the ABC’s permission we are re-posting a broadcast by ABC Radio National’s ‘Life Matters’ earlier this week . You can also read about the research carried out by University of Canberra’s Lucetta Thomas here. Below is the introductory text for this broadcast from ABC Life Matters.

 NOTE: This story contains content that people may find distressing

Since the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse was established by the Government in 2013, Australia has had a long, hard and often traumatic public conversation about child abuse.

Despite the painful stories of lives wrecked by systematic child abuse, and the failure of those adults in positions power to stop it, many advocates are grateful the issues are at least on the table.

As a community, it’s made us pay far greater attention to sexual abuse that occurs not only in institutions, but in private homes too.

But there’s one kind of child abuse that is barely acknowledged. It’s the story of mothers who sexually abuse their sons.

 If you need support, call Mensline 24/7 on 1300 78 99 78 or visit www.mensline.org.au. 

You can also call Lifeline on 131114 or chat online at www.lifeline.org.au.

For a detailed listing of support services for victims child sex abuse, see The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse’s website.

Reporting by Ginger Gorman. Reposted with permission from ABC Radio National – Life Matters. Find the original here.