A child may become quiet for reasons other than the occurrence of molestation, such as being bullied, going through their parents’ divorce, and other circumstances. However, it should be viewed as a red flag that could point to molestation, especially if you notice other warning signs as well.
Bedwetting (after the age at which this normally occurs) Throwing tantrums and showing aggression for no apparent reason Clinging to you and crying when you have to depart after dropping the child off at school or daycare Thumb or finger sucking, bedwetting, baby talk, or separation anxiety.
For example, a child who is being molested might touch a doll or toy inappropriately, or exhibit this behavior toward another child. A child might also use sexual words or phrases that they have never been taught. It is normal for young children to touch their private parts, as they are curious about their body and wish to explore it. But if they seem to be exhibiting adult behaviors while doing so, like using developmentally inappropriate language, then that is cause for alarm.
Some children are naturally shy, but you should be able to tell the difference between shyness and out-of-the-ordinary fear in your child’s reaction to someone. See if your child demonstrates a peculiar aversion to a certain place, like school, piano lessons, a relative’s house, and so on.
Sudden onset or relapse of bedwetting and soiling Pain, discoloration, bleeding or discharge in the mouth, genitals or anus Pain during urination and bowel movements Bruising around the genital area.
using childish language to talk about body parts showing curiosity about how babies are made touching or rubbing their own genitals having curiosity about their own genitals
Do not bring up the subject of abuse in front of anyone you don’t trust completely. Don’t bring it up in front of anyone you might suspect of abuse, including members of the child’s immediate family. It’s important to be entirely nonjudgmental and reassuring throughout the discussion. Do not be dismissive or try to lighten things up, or express anger - even if it’s anger at the situation and not your child. Talking to your children about sexual abuse can be uncomfortable, but it’s important to have these conversations because having an understanding of what it is will help keep them safe.
If your child says yes, encourage them to tell you more. Keep asking questions in a nonjudgmental way. Note that sometimes sexual molestation doesn’t leave a negative impression on the child. Using words like “did someone hurt you” or “did someone touch you in a bad way” might not resonate with the child. Be more specific. [6] X Trustworthy Source Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network Largest anti-sexual assault organization in the US providing support and advocacy for survivors Go to source
Reassure them that they won’t get in trouble if they talk to you about something that made them uncomfortable or something they found unusual.
Touching a child’s genitals for sexual pleasure Making a child touch someone else’s genitals (an adult’s or another child’s) Showing pornography to a child Taking inappropriate pictures of a child Showing a child an adult’s genitals or encouraging a child to watch sexual acts
Some parents use the “good touch, bad touch, secret touch” method to teach their children about touching. A good touch is one that is welcome, like a high five. A bad touch is one that hurts, like a kick or punch. A secret touch is one that a child is told to keep a secret. Tell your child to let you know right away if a bad or secret touch happens. Teach your child that there are parts of their body that are private, but their entire body should be respected at all times. Teach them that it is okay to say no to things they are uncomfortable with and to immediately get away from anyone who won’t respect their boundaries.
If your child brings up a problem - even a problem unrelated to potential abuse - never be dismissive. Always take your child seriously and help your child find a way to solve the problem.
Make sure your child is feeling emotionally supported, too. Children who don’t feel they are getting enough attention at home are more vulnerable to predators.
Keep your child away from the abuser. Call the Emergency Services and report the abuser to the local authorities. Call the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1. 800. 4. A. CHILD for more information about reporting the abuse. Get medical attention for your child. It’s important to take your child to the doctor to find out if they were physically harmed. Take your child to counseling. The psychological trauma of abuse often outlasts the physical trauma. Therapy can help your child find ways to cope. [10] X Research source
