. . . . . Warning Signs
Children are less likely to talk about what is upsetting them and more likely to show us.
Behavioural Warning Signs
Age inappropriate sexual play or sexual knowledge
Acting out in an sexual way with toys or objects
Disrupted sleep patterns and nightmares
Running away
Becoming withdrawn or very clingy
Inserts objects into vagina or rectum
Becoming unusually secretive (i.e. about new friends, phone calls, internet use) Sudden unexplained personality changes, mood swings and seeming insecure
Directs sexually intrusive behaviour to adults
Changes in school performance/attendance
Regressing to younger behaviours, such as bedwetting
Unexplained developmental setbacks (i.e. not toilet trained) Involved in sexually exploitive activities (i.e. performing sex acts for money)
Fear of particular places or people
Outbursts of anger and aggression
Flinches when touched
Changes in eating habits
Misuse of drugs or alcohol
New adult words for body parts and no obvious source Talk of a new, older friend, and unexplained money or gifts
Not wanting to be alone with a particular child, young adult, or adult
Forces another child to participate in sexual play
Self-harm (i.e. cutting, burning, or other harmful activities)
Stealing, fire setting
Being overly protective of siblings
Easily startled/frightened
Adapted from: parentsprotect.co.uk
Physical Warning Signs
See your doctor if you notice any of the following physical warning signs: • Unexplained or persistent pain • Discolouration, bleeding, or discharge in genitals, anus or mouth • Persistent or recurring pain during urination and bowel movements • Wetting and soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training • Pregnancy • Sexually transmitted diseases
Any one of the above signs DOES NOT mean that a child was or is being sexually abused - but the presence of several signs, suggests that you should consider seeking help .
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