When stories of sexual abuse in schools, churches, youth organizations, or sports programs come to light, one of the most troubling questions is: Why didn’t anyone step in sooner? Sadly, history shows a consistent pattern—institutions often protect abusers instead of protecting the students they were supposed to keep safe.
Below, our friends from Kellogg & Van Aken LLP discuss why institutions often protect abusers over students.
Protecting Reputation Over Children
Institutions frequently prioritize their public image over student safety. Administrators may worry that reporting abuse will cause scandal, damage the school’s reputation, or harm enrollment. In states and across the country, this “circle the wagons” mentality allows abusers to remain in positions of power while students continue to be harmed.
Defending Adults Over Children
Another disturbing reality is that institutions and the adults who run them are often quicker to defend the reputations of fellow adults than to believe or protect children. It can feel easier for administrators to dismiss a child’s report as exaggeration than to confront the possibility that a trusted teacher, coach, or staff member has committed serious wrongdoing. This tendency minimizes the voices of children and allows abuse to persist.
Fear Of Liability
Another reason institutions cover up abuse is fear of lawsuits or financial fallout. Ironically, in trying to avoid liability, schools and organizations often make matters worse. By ignoring or concealing abuse, they increase the harm to survivors and expose themselves to even greater legal consequences when the truth emerges.
Failure To Take Red Flags Seriously
Most abuse cases don’t start with an obvious crime. They begin with “grooming” behaviors: a teacher spending extra time with a student, sending inappropriate texts, or giving special privileges. Too often, staff members notice these red flags but dismiss them as favoritism or “just being nice.” When institutions fail to investigate early warning signs, abuse is allowed to escalate.
A Culture Of Silence
In some schools and organizations, speaking up is discouraged. Staff may fear retaliation, loss of their job, or being labeled disloyal if they report concerns. Students, too, may feel silenced if they see adults turning a blind eye. This culture of silence protects abusers and isolates survivors.
How Civil Lawsuits Create Change
Civil sexual abuse lawsuits play a critical role in breaking this cycle. By holding schools, churches, and other institutions accountable in courts, survivors force change. These cases not only provide compensation for survivors but also drive reforms such as better reporting policies, improved training, and stronger child protection measures.
Commitment To Survivors
A sexual abuse attorney represents survivors of sexual abuse in civil cases. They know how often institutions put their own interests above the safety of children, and fight to hold them accountable. Survivors deserve to be heard, believed, and supported, and a good lawyer can stand beside them to get the legal system to do this.
If you or your child has been harmed by abuse in a school or institution a sexual abuse lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue justice.