Why we use the term adult survivors

Wings chooses to use the terms ‘adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse’ and ‘adult survivor.’ This language is person-first and recognizes that people are more than what happened to them. It acknowledges that the person is now an adult and that they experienced sexual abuse in childhood. It also honors their strength and resilience. 

You get to choose your language 

You have the right to choose the language you want to use to describe yourself and your experience(s). It’s also okay if you don’t yet have the right words or if the language you use changes over time. There is power in naming. 

We honor your choice. We will always mirror the language each person uses when speaking to them. Stories and videos on our website might also use varied language when someone is sharing their story directly based on the language they want to use.  

Victims have rights 

In the criminal justice system, childhood sexual abuse is always recognized as a crime and people who experience it as ‘victims of crime.’   Certain rights are afforded to victims of crime. Using the word ‘victim’ in criminal justice settings or documents ensures that the responding professionals or systems will acknowledge the rights and services available to survivors due to their victimization.