" Even under the best scenario—when a caring parent moves in to comfort and protect the child after the abuse is discovered—the family system is irrevocably disrupted. The abuser may be removed from the family or sent to prison; the nonoffending parent is emotionally devastated and filled with guilt for not knowing and protecting her child. She may resent the child and blame her for "stealing" her partner's affections, or for breaking up the family and causing financial hardship. All of this adds to the child's sense of guilt, shame, and responsibility. "

― Marilee Strong , A Bright Red Scream: Self-Mutilation and the Language of Pain