Title: Sexual Abuse
Headings: 
Sexual Abuse
Sexually abused children may also develop the following:
Parents can prevent or lessen the chance of sexual abuse by:
If you need immediate assistance, please dial 911.

Content: The long-term emotional and physical damage after sexual abuse can be devastating to the child. Children who experience sexual abuse and other “adverse childhood experiences” (ACEs) such as physical abuse or neglect, have a higher chance of developing depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, drug addiction, and suicidal behaviors later in life. They also have a higher chance of developing physical conditions such as heart disease later in life. This is why it is so important to identify it as soon as possible, seek help for these children, and focus on preventing it in the future. Child sexual abuse often takes place within the family, by a parent, stepparent, sibling or other relative; or outside the home, for example, by a friend, neighbor, childcare person, teacher, or stranger. When sexual abuse has occurred, a child develops many distressing feelings, thoughts and behaviors. Children may be threatened by the abuser and be fearful to tell anyone else, especially if the abuser is someone they know well. No child is prepared to cope with repeated pain and fear of sexual abuse. Even a two or three-year-old, who cannot understand the sexual activity, will suffer physically and emotionally.