How to Recognise the Signs of Sexual Abuse and Trauma

While some children seem unaffected or minimally affected by their traumatic experiences, in reality, it is often the adults around them who are misreading their cues. These children are communicating non-verbally with us, and we need to learn their language and educate others who work with children who have been abused about this language.

Unfortunately, there is no behaviour alone that will determine if a child has been sexually abused.  None of the symptoms outlined are factually conclusive but are intended as a general guide.  The important thing to remember is that any suspicion concerning a child’s wellbeing should be carefully investigated.

Physical indicators of sexual abuse may include:

• Physical complaints of pain or irritation of the genital and/or rectal area
• Appearance of symptoms of sexually transmitted disease(s)
• Pregnancy in young adolescents
• Frequent, unexplained sore throats, yeast or urinary tract infections
• Nightmares, bedwetting, fear of the dark, difficulty falling asleep, newly developed fears
• Gastrointestinal disturbances
• Difficulty in walking or sitting
• Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
• Unexplained bruises, lacerations, redness, swelling or bleeding in the genital, vaginal or anal areas.
• Blood in urine or stools
• Pain experienced in elimination

Behavioural indicators of child sexual abuse may include:

• Inappropriate physical or verbal displays of sexual terms or acts in young   children
• Depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies
• Reluctance or fear of a person or of certain places, such as showers
• Clinging, anxious, irritable behaviour
• Regression to babyish habits, such as thumb sucking
• Sudden interest in genitals of others, sexual acts and terminology
• Drawings that are scary or use a lot of black and red
• Acting out sexual or abusive behaviour with toys, animals or people
• Vehement over-reaction when the child is questioned about whether or not he or she has been touched
• Sexual behaviour that is inappropriate for the age of the child, such as French kissing
• Frequent psychosomatic complaints, such as headaches, backaches, stomach aches
• Withdrawal from friends, family members and/or normal activities
• Avoidance of underdressing or wearing of extra layers of clothing
• Avoidance of normal physical interaction with family member such as hugs or kisses
• Avoidance of certain familiar adults or places
• Decline in school grades or decreased participation in after school activities
• Inappropriate “acting out” of sexual behaviour or dress
• Frequent incidents of running away
• Excessive bathing or poor hygiene
• Discipline problems
• Eating disorders
• Passive or overly pleasing behaviour
• Delinquent acts or self-harming/destructive behaviours
• Hostility or aggression
• Drug or alcohol problems
• Sexual activity or pregnancy at an early age

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