Prevention of Sexual Abuse in School Settings: Breaking the Culture of Silence

The article addresses the prevention of sexual abuse in school settings, highlighting the alarming prevalence of these crimes worldwide and in the Dominican Republic. It examines the impact of concealment and normalization of abuse, emphasizing how these practices perpetuate impunity. Sexual abuse is defined, emphasizing its psychological and social implications, particularly for minors and vulnerable individuals. The Dominican legal framework is also reviewed, including the Code for the Protection of Children and Adolescents and Law 53-07 on High-Tech Crimes. The challenges of the education system in preventing abuse and the need for ethical training for teachers are discussed. Finally, prevention strategies are proposed, such as promoting respect for children’s dignity, ensuring transparency in educational relationships, and fostering a safe environment. The article concludes with reflective questions to strengthen the commitment against abuse.