If a child has been sexually abused, they may display some or all of the following:
Unwilling/afraid to be left with a particular person, and reluctant to discuss time with person
Change in child’s behavior when particular person is present
Use of new words to describe genitalia or sexual behavior
Chronic masturbation or acting out sexual scenarios with dolls, toys, or friends
Self-harming behaviors, such as abuse of alcohol or drugs, promiscuity, and cutting
Physical signs, including, headaches, stomach pain, change in appetite or eating disorders, “bathroom accidents,” sleeping difficulty, trouble sitting or walking, urination pain, unexplained injuries around mouth, and irritation, bleeding or infection of genitalia
Additional information:
You can read more about the signs of abuse on this page: Identifying abuse
