Recognize sexual abuse
Child sexual abuse can come to people's attention in many ways.
Some sexually abused children display inappropriate sexual behaviors with other children or adults. Some sexually abused children have behavior changes, changes in school performance, problems sleeping or changes in appetite. Sexually abused children may complain of headaches, stomach aches or genital pain. While some sexually abused children tell people of the abuse, many do not (even as adults).
If you suspect a child is being sexually abused, get involved.
If a child describes sexual abuse or tells you she is being abused, you shouldn't try to investigate and determine if they are telling the truth. Leave that to the professionals. Report to Child Protective Services or to law enforcement. It's important that the child be evaluated by professionals who are experienced in evaluating child sexual abuse.
Suspect child sexual abuse if:
- You witness inappropriate sexual behaviors between an adult and a child
- A child demonstrates sophisticated or unusual sexual knowlege or behaviors
- Engages in sexualized play
- Imitates sexual intercourse
If a child reports sexual abuse, don't ignore it! REPORT suspected abuse to the authorities.