How often are allegations of child sexual abuse proven to be made up?

The assertion that allegations of child sexual abuse are often made up is widely regarded as a myth. Research and studies in this area indicate that false reports of child sexual abuse are rare, occurring in a small percentage of cases. The psychological impacts of such abuse, alongside the emotional and social stigma surrounding it, contribute to the likelihood that victims will not fabricate allegations.

Understanding this context is essential for fostering a supportive environment whether in sports or other settings, as it underscores the importance of believing and supporting individuals who come forward with allegations rather than dismissing them as potentially false. This myth can deter actual victims from seeking help or reporting abuse due to fear of not being believed or facing skepticism about their claims. Thus, recognizing that false allegations are a minority helps in promoting a culture of safety and support for victims.