Clues to Recognizing Sexual Abuse
Physical Indicators
- somatic complaints, including pain and irritation of the genitals
- sexually transmitted disease
- pregnancy
- bruises or bleeding from external genitalia, vagina, or anal region
- genital discharge
- torn, stained, or bloody underclothes
- frequent, unexplained sore throats, yeast or urinary infections
- bed wetting
Behavioral Indicators
- victim's disclosure of sexual abuse
- poor peer relationships, inability to relate to children of same age
- regressive behaviors(ex. Bedwetting, thumb sucking)
- sudden changes in behavior
- promiscuity or seductive behavior
- aggression or delinquency
- truancy or chronic running away
- substance abuse
- difficulty in walking or sitting
- preoccupation with sexual organs(child's own or others)
- recurrent nightmares, disturbed sleep patterns or fear of the dark
- sudden decline in school performance
- unusual age-inappropriate interest in sexual matters
- age-inappropriate ways of expressing affection
- avoidance of undressing or wearing extra layers of clothes
- self-injury