Clues to Recognizing Sexual Abuse

Physical Indicators:

Repeated complaints, including pain and irritation of the genital area

Sexually transmitted disease

Pregnancy

Bruises or bleeding from external genitalia, vaginal or anal area

Genital discharge

Torn, stained or bloody underclothing

Frequent, unexplained sore throats, yeast   or urinary infections

Behavioral Indicators:

The victim's disclosure of the sexual abuse

Inability to relate to children of the same age

Regressive behavior, such as thumb sucking, bed-wetting, fear of the dark, or reattachment to a favorite toy

Sudden changes in behavior

Aggression or delinquency

Truancy or chronic running away

Difficulty in walking or sitting

Reluctance to participate in recreational activity

In young children; preoccupation with their sexual organs,                                          those of other children or their parents

Recurrent nightmares or disturbed sleep patterns

Unusual and age-inappropriate interest in sexual matters

Age-inappropriate ways of expressing affection

Avoidance of undressing or wearing extra layers of clothing

Sudden avoidance of certain familiar adults or places

Sudden decline in school performance