Physical Indicators of Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse victims may exhibit a number of physical and behavioral indicators that they are being abused. Hence, many sex abuse prevention methods are based on making parents and other caring adults aware of the behavioral warning signs of abuse. In addition to awareness, these prevention methods prescribe an appropriate response to suspicious behavior. But, an appropriate response begins when a parent or other caring adult observes warning signs of possible abuse.
Behavioral changes are a clear sign that something is impacting a child's life. Parents and caregivers should be alert to any noticeable changes in a child's behavior. Remember, the existence of a particular warning sign (or set of warning signs) does not definitively indicate that a child is being abused. However, the appearance of even a single warning sign should cause responsible and caring adults to look more closely for additional indicators that a child is in danger.
In addition to the behavioral warning signs, there are some specific physical indicators of abuse in both girls and boys. These physical warning signs include:
- Recurring urinary tract infections.
- Sexually transmitted disease.
- Torn or stained undergarments.
- Bleeding or cracks and tears around the mouth, vagina, or anus.
- General increase in headaches, stomachaches, and other physical complaints.
- Gagging on food or vomiting while trying to eat.
- Wetting or soiling bed or undergarments.
- Unexplained rashes and bruises.
- Pregnancy at an early age (girls).
- Difficulty in walking or sitting.
- Unusual genital itching.
- Self abuse (e.g., cutting themselves, burning themselves, or some other forms of deliberate infliction of pain and/or injury by the child on himself or herself).
Bottom Line:
The prevention of child sexual abuse begins with informed, aware, and caring adults. Become familiar with both the behavioral and physical indicators of child sexual abuse. If you suspect a child is being sexually abused, contact the appropriate individuals within your organization (if applicable) and report your concerns to child protective services in your state.
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| Last Week's Poll
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Did you hear many stories of child sexual abuse before your organization began its child sexual abuse prevention awareness programs?
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Yes
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53.02%
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No
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46.98%
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Total Votes: 1871
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