Warning Signs of Child Sexual Abuse

It is important to recognize that the presence of one or more of the following warning signs DOES NOT necessarily indicate your child is being abused. While one or more of the signs may be indicative of the possibility of abuse, it is more important to look at patterns such as the frequency, intensity, duration, and variation from the “norms” of child behaviors. Below are some of the signs that may be something to consider:

Behavioral:

• Changes in appetite, sleep patterns

• Change in school performance

• Adult sexual knowledge

• Sexually inappropriate behaviors

• A return to infant-like behaviors

• Odd or unusual bathroom behaviors

• Intense sadness/anger/aggression

• Suicidal behavior and/or talk

• Nightmares

• Sudden refusal to participate in physical activities

• Lack of interest in activities that were once adored

Physical:

• Bloody, stained underwear

• Pain, bleeding in private areas

• Pregnancy

• Sexually transmitted diseases

• Ongoing difficulty sitting or walking

• Repeated yeast or urinary infections

• Bedwetting