Title: Signs of Sexual Abuse
Headings: Signs of Sexual Abuse
Signs of Sexual Abuse
Content: Engaging in persistent sexual play with friends, toys or pets. Having unexplained periods of panic, which may be flashbacks from the abuse. Regressing to behaviors too young for the stage of development they already achieved. Initiating sophisticated sexual behaviors. Indicating a sudden reluctance to be alone with a certain person. Engaging in self-mutilations, such as sticking themselves with pins or cutting themselves. Withdrawing from previously enjoyable activities, like school or school performance change. Asking an unusual amount of questions about human sexuality. (By Kathy Smedley, Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist, and Program Director for the Northeast Texas Children's Advocacy Center.)