SEXUAL ABUSE SIGNS
The signs of child sexual abuse can vary, and it's important to note that the presence of one sign does not confirm that sexual abuse has occurred. However, the presence of several signs may indicate the need to seek help. Some of the signs that could indicate a child is being sexually abused include:
1. BEHAVIORAL SIGNS OF ABUSE:
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Acting younger or reverting to younger activities
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Sudden changes in behavior
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Fear of being alone with a specific person
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Unexplained fears of certain places or people
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Fear of being touched
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Changes in school performance
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Substance abuse
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Self-harm or careless behaviors resulting in self-harm
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Excessive play with private body parts
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Persistent sex play with friends, toys, or pets
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Frequent drawings with sexual content
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Unusual or persistent questioning about human sexuality
2. EMOTIONAL SIGNS OF ABUSE:
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Severe anxiety
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Depression
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Nightmares
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Withdrawal
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Clinging behavior
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Unusual or new fears
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Difficulty concentrating or with memory
Be proactive and step up to help save a life. It's OK to question something that makes your hair stand up on the back of your neck! If you have ever thought "something just does not seem right..." -> Say something! You could be the answer to their prayer for help!
3. PHYSICAL SIGNS OF ABUSE:
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Bloody underwear/diapers
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Torn underclothing
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Bruising, swelling, or irritation in the genital area
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Urinary or yeast infections
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Difficulty walking or sitting
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Pain, itching, or burning in the genital area
It's crucial to keep in mind that the presence of a single sign does not automatically imply that a child has experienced sexual, physical or mental abuse. However, if multiple signs are observed, it may be necessary to give more attention and consider further investigation. If you have concerns that a child is a victim of sexual abuse, it's essential to reach out to professionals for assistance and respond in ways that contribute to the healing and well-being of the child.
4. YOUNGER CHILDREN SIGNS OF ABUSE:
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An older child behaving like a younger child (such as bed-wetting or thumb-sucking)
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Has new words for private body parts
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Resists removing clothes when appropriate times (bath, bed, toileting, diapering)
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Asks other children to behave sexually or play sexual games
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Mimics adult-like sexual behaviors with toys or stuffed animal
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Wetting and soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training
4. ADOLESCENT SIGNS OF ABUSE:
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Self-injury (cutting, burning)
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Inadequate personal hygiene
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Drug and alcohol abuse
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Sexual promiscuity
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Running away from home
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Depression, anxiety
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Suicide attempts
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Fear of intimacy or closeness
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Compulsive eating or dieting
5. PHYSICAL WARNING SIGNS OF ABUSE:
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Physical signs of sexual abuse are rare. If you see these signs, bring your child to a doctor. Your doctor can help you understand what may be happening and test for sexually transmitted diseases.
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Pain, discoloration, bleeding or discharges in genitals, anus or mouth
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Persistent or recurring pain during urination and bowel movements
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Wetting and soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training
How can parents differentiate between normal child behavior and signs of sexual abuse?
Identifying signs of child sexual abuse can be challenging, as they may overlap with signs of stress, distress, or trauma. It's important for parents to be alert to these signs, understand why they're happening, and seek help for their child if needed.
It's essential to note that while these signs may raise concerns, they do not confirm sexual abuse on their own. If parents observe several of these signs, it's important to seek guidance from professionals to differentiate between normal child behavior and potential signs of sexual abuse.
