Sexual abuse of a child can result in long term psychological and emotional harm, and in some cases serious physical harm including sexually transmitted diseases (STD). When a child is sexually abused, it often goes overlooked, and it is usually perpetrated by someone in a position of trust. Parents who knows the signs can spot sexual abuse and stop it, and help their children get the help they need to heal. The criminal justice system is set up to punish perpetrators, but not to compensate victims. If your child has been a victim of sexual abuse, you may be able to recover compensation for your child through a sexual abuse lawsuit.
Behavioral and Emotional Signs of Sexual Abuse
The behavioral and emotional signs of sexual abuse in a child can also be signs of other issues causing stress in their lives, such as divorce, bullying, the death of a pet or problems with friends. A single sign does not necessarily indicate sexual abuse or other serious problems, and warning signs should be considered when taken in combination. Behavioral and emotional signs of sexual abuse in a child can include:
- Nightmares or sleep problems
- Bedwetting or soiling the bed in a child who has outgrown the behavior
- Not wanting to be left alone with certain people
- Overly protective of siblings
- Returns to behaviors that have resolved, such as thumb sucking
- Hygiene changes such as bathing excessively or refusing to bathe
- Problems in school
- Signs of depression
- Sudden mood swings
- Sudden change in eating habits
- Shrinks away from physical contact
- Refuses to or tries to avoid removing clothing to bathe or change
- Inappropriate sexual knowledge or behavior
- New phobias
- Self-harm
- Excessive worry or fearfulness
- Describes self or body as repulsive, dirty or bad
Physical Signs of Sexual Abuse
The physical signs of sexual abuse in a child are less often seen. If your child displays these signs, seek medical attention. Sexual abuse may be the cause, or there may be another medical reason. Physical signs of sexual abuse in a child can include:
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Pain itching or burning in the genital area
- Pain during urination and/or bowel movements
- Signs of trauma to the genital area, such as pain, bruising or bleeding
- Bloody sheets
- Bloody, torn or stained underclothes
- Frequent urinary tract or yeast infections
- Wetting and soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training
If your child has been sexually abused, in Oregon, the Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin is here to help you seek justice. Call us at 503-239-1910 or contact us online today and schedule your free confidential consultation.