Signs of sexual abuse are not always clear, however, there are signs that may indicate a child is experiencing abuse. If you notice a child experiencing several of the symptoms listened below, you should talk to your child.
Physical signs:
- Pain or itching in the genital area
- Bruises or bleeding in external genitalia
- Venereal disease
- Nightmares or other sleep disturbances
- Frequent stomach illness with no identifiable reason
- Loss of appetite, or trouble eating or swallowing
- Frequent genital or urinary tract infections or irritations
- Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
Behavioral signs:
- An increase in physical complaints
- Problems with bedtime or fear of going to sleep
- Fear of certain people or places (example: not wanting to be left alone with a babysitter)
- Regression to infantile behaviors such as thumb-sucking or bed-wetting
- Abnormal interest in sex or knowledge of sexual matters inappropriate for the child’s age
- Preoccupation with their body or masturbation
- Bedwetting — especially if it begins in a child who has been dry
- Sexual activities with toys or other children, such as simulating sex with dolls or asking other children/siblings to behave sexually
- Using new words for private body parts
- Refusing to talk about a ‘secret’ he/she has with an adult or older child
Emotional signs:
- Unexplained fear or dislike of certain people or places depression or withdrawal
- Lack of confidence
- Sudden mood swings: rage, fear, anger, or withdrawal