I think my child is a victim!
What now?
The steps below outline what to do right now to protect your child, preserve critical evidence, and avoid common errors before contacting authorities.
DISCLAIMER
This guide is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, medical advice, or psychological advice. Procedures and available services vary by prefecture and municipality.
DON'T ASK A LOT OF QUESTIONS
Repeated questioning can unintentionally influence a child's memory and affect the reliability of their future testimony. Instead, reassure the child, arrange for a trained forensic interviewer to conduct an interview asap, and limit questions to only what is necessary to ensure the child's immediate safety.
REPORT THE CASE TO THE POLICE/CHILD GUIDANCE CENTER/SCHOOL
Report the abuse to the appropriate authorities based on the outcome you are seeking. This may include the police (for criminal investigation), the Child Guidance Center (for child protection and welfare intervention), or the school and relevant education or licensing authorities (for institutional accountability).
GET TRAUMA THERAPY AND SUPPORT
Even after the immediate crisis has passed, children may experience emotional, behavioral, or physical effects that emerge weeks, months, or even years later. Seek support from a qualified mental health professional with experience in childhood trauma, and continue to monitor your child's well-being over time. Early, trauma-informed intervention can play a vital role in helping children heal and build resilience.
DON'T CLEAN YOUR CHILD OR CHANGE YOUR CHILD'S CLOTHING
If your child has not yet bathed or changed clothes since the alleged incident, do not bathe, shower, or change your child until a forensic medical examination has been conducted. Critical biological and trace evidence – DNA, fluids, fibers, and other materials – may be present on your child's body or clothing. Once washed away, this evidence cannot be recovered.
OBTAIN A FORENSIC INTERVIEW AND FORENSIC MEDICAL EXAMINATION
Arrange a forensic interview and forensic medical examination as soon as possible. These are among the most important steps after a child discloses abuse.
A forensic interview is conducted by a specially trained professional using child-friendly, non-leading techniques to gather accurate information while minimizing further trauma.
A forensic medical examination assesses the child's health, documents any injuries, and, when appropriate, collects time-sensitive forensic evidence such as DNA. Seeking these services promptly helps protect both your child's well-being and any potential investigation.
The order of these two processes may vary depending on the case.
GET THE FULL GUIDE (FREE PDF)
In Japan, the decisions you make in the first 24–72 hours after a disclosure can significantly affect the investigation.
Our free, comprehensive Child Sexual Abuse Reporting Guide provides practical step-by-step instructions to protect your child, including:
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Critical initial mistakes to avoid before your child is interviewed
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Direct contact details for properly conducted forensic interviews & forensic medical examinations
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Step-by-step instructions for navigating Japan's police, child welfare, and education systems
Fill out the quick form below or email us directly at sodan@goZOE.jp to receive your free copy.