Signs of Sexual Abuse

What is Abuse?

Child sexual abuse may include inappropriate kissing, touching, masturbation, oral sex, vaginal or anal contact or penetration, child pornography, or exposure to sex and pornographic images. Abuse may be a single incident or make take place over several years.

What are the signs of sexual abuse in younger children?

Nightmares or disturbed sleeping patterns
Bed wetting
Fecal Soiling
Fecal Smearing
Regression to more infantile behavior
Loss of Appetite
Aggressive Behavior
Withdrawing or clinging behavior

What are the signs of sexual abuse in older children?

Nightmares or disturbed sleeping patterns
Change in School performance
Eating disorders, sudden weight gain or loss
Suicide attempts
Self-mutilation – cutting or rubbing with erasers
Depression and withdrawal
Drug and alcohol abuse
Poor self-image
Aggressive behavior
Running away or aversion toward going home
Change in Hygiene habits
Physical signs of sexual abuse are rare