Signs of Possible Child Sexual Abuse

  1. Overview
  2. Sexual Violence
  3. Signs of Possible Child Sexual Abuse
  • Repeated physical complaints with no known cause (e.g., stomach ache, headache, etc.)
  • Sleep disturbances or nightmares
  • Excessive clinging or crying
  • Bedwetting
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • School problems
  • Running away
  • Hostility or aggression
  • Suicidal thoughts/behavior
  • Sexually transmitted diseases
  • Change in eating habits
  • Fear or dislike of particular adults or places
  • Withdrawal from family, friends or usual activities
  • Frequent touching of private parts
  • Sexual behavior inappropriate to the age of the child
  • Drug or alcohol problems
  • Physical symptoms involving the genital, anal or mouth area
  • Any dramatic change in behavior or development of new behaviors

Was this article helpful?