  
|
 |
 |
Most cases of sexual abuse do not present apparent physical indicators, and so identification can be quite difficult. In addition, many child victims of sexual abuse are extremely reluctant to report abuse, even to a very trusted adult or friend, for legitimate fear of retribution and/or worse abuse. To further complicate these concerns, it is true that the vast majority of perpetrators are family members or friends of the child and his/her family, making disclosure of the abuse very difficult for the child. Victims of sexual abuse often experience the fear of betraying a loved one, and possibly losing their affections if they report. They also fear the overwhelming anticipated shame and guilt that it is thought disclosure will cause, and fear being themselves blamed for the abuse.
While research suggests that few victims fabricate incidents of child sexual abuse, it is true that children may retract the disclosure as they experience pressure from family and/or friends. Many of them then choose to continue to live in devastating isolation with their "secret." Most perpetrators of child sexual abuse know their victims well, as they are often trusted family members who have easy access to the child. It is not a unique problem of a certain class, race, or geographic area. There is no clear and distinct typical profile of a child molester, or victim of sexual abuse. Do not make assumptions based on social position or reputation that someone might not be a child molester.
Physical Indicators of Sexual Abuse
- Difficulty walking or sitting
- Pain, itching, bruises, or bleeding in genital or anal area
- Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing
- Bruises to the hard or soft palate
- Presence of sexually transmitted diseases
- Pregnancy, especially in early adolescent years
- Painful discharge of urine and/or repeated urinary infections
- Foreign bodies in vagina or rectum
Child Behavioral Indicators of Sexual Abuse
- Unwilling to change for gym or participate in gym class
- Withdrawal, fantasy, or infantile behavior
- Bizarre, sophisticated, or unusual sexual behavior or knowledge
- Seductive or promiscuous behavior
- Poor peer relationships
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Delinquency
- Reports assault by caretaker
- Runaway behavior
- Prostitution
- Forcing sexual acts on other children
- Extreme fear of being touched
- Truancy
- Self-injurious behaviors
- Manifestations of low self-esteem, general fearfulness
- Habit disorders such as sucking, biting, rocking, etc.
- Attempts suicide
Adapted from: The identification and reporting of child abuse and maltreatment: New York State Syllabus. (2001).
|
Contact
For additional information, please contact:
Marlene Scheer
Continuing Education Coordinator
Social Work Building, Rm 231
p - 516.877.4392
f - 516.877.3266
e - scheer@adelphi.edu
|
