Signs of Child Sexual Abuse
Some behavior changes may occur in children that have been sexually abused; these changes may also occur when there is a physical or emotional abuse, or during stressful life circumstances. They include:
- Physical complaints such as head or stomach aches
- Fear or dislike of certain people or places
- Sleep disturbances
- Depression or Anxiety
- Delinquent acts and other school problems
- Low self-esteem
- A return to younger, babyish behavior
- Excessive bathing or poor hygiene
- Running away
- Eating disorders
- Passive behavior
- Withdrawal from family, friends or usual activities
- Self-destructive behavior, hostility or aggression
- Drug or alcohol problems
- Sexual activity or pregnancy at an early age
- Suicide attempts
Children who are being sexually abused frequently have more specific symptoms, including:
- Copying adult behavior
- Persistent sexual play with other children, themselves, toys or pets
- Displaying sexual knowledge, through language or behavior, that is beyond what is normal for their age
- Unexplained pain, swelling, bleeding or irritation of the mouth, genital or anal areas; urinary tract infections; sexually transmitted diseases
- Hints, indirect comments or statements about the abuse