Singapore survivors of family sexual abuse struggle with self-blame

Sexual assault survivors in Singapore who were abused by family members often grapple with self-blame, questioning why the abuse happened and if they caused it, according to advocacy group AWARE. Police data shows rape cases rose from 230 in the first half of 2025 to 261 in the first half of 2026, with most cases involving offenders and victims who knew each other. Sexual assault cases involving victims under 16 committed by family members increased from 169 in 2023 to 192 in 2025. Experts say coercive control and grooming keep victims silent, while disbelief from family acts as a "second betrayal." Witnesses are urged to report assaults, and victims are encouraged to seek therapy and legal recourse to regain control.