8 common signs of child sexual abuse.

(Baonghean.vn) - It is usually very difficult to detect child sexual abuse unless the child themselves speaks out. Parents need to be aware of the early signs of sexual abuse in children so that timely action can be taken.

Children who are quiet and unwilling to play (Illustrative image).

When sexually abused, children rarely speak out because they are often ashamed, endure the humiliation, become depressed, sad, angry, lack self-confidence, doubtful, and engage in destructive behavior. This leads to immeasurable consequences for their psychological and physical health, and their behavior later in life. Many cases of childhood sexual abuse victims go on to become prostitutes, criminals, runaways, or abuse substances.

Parents need to be aware of and recognize early signs of sexual abuse in children so that they can take timely action and avoid long-term harm.

Here are some signs that a child may have been or is currently being sexually abused:

1. Sleep disorders:

Children who have been sexually abused may experience nightmares while sleeping at night, waking up in the middle of the night in a state of panic, screaming, and crying.

2.Physical disorders:

Many children experience unusual abdominal pain, frequent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bedwetting, pain or itching in the genitals or anus, headaches, dizziness, etc.

3. Anxiety or phobias:

This is a common psychological reaction when children are sexually abused. They show fear and exhibit behaviors such as refusing to undress, refusing to use the restroom at school, having an excessive tendency to clean themselves, being afraid of men, tending to isolate themselves in their rooms, being afraid of being touched, showing suspicion towards others, etc.

4. Symptoms of depression:

Manifestations include symptoms such as sadness, lack of confidence, withdrawal, low self-esteem, unexplained crying, suicidal thoughts, or other self-harming behaviors (self-mutilation).

Children who have been sexually abused often suffer significant psychological trauma, leading to depression and anxiety. (Illustrative image)

5. Generalized behavioral disorders:

When children are abused, they often argue with adults, quarrel with friends, and exhibit unusual hyperactivity. Deceptive mature behavior is also considered a distinctive sign of sexual abuse (the child assumes adult roles such as mother or wife). Children may occasionally display immature behavior.

6.Learning difficulties:

Symptoms of academic failure include declining academic performance, lack of concentration, loss of motivation, loss of interest in play and creative activities, defiant attitudes towards teachers, and self-isolation in class.

7. Eating disorders:

When children who were eating normally suddenly start vomiting, losing their appetite, or eating excessively and uncontrollably, these are also signs that need attention.

8. Sexual expression:

Excessive interest in anything related to sex, engaging in sex games simulated through dolls or classmates; exhibitionism, especially of the genitals; unusual drawings, a child's seductive attitude towards adults, intense sexual curiosity, excessive fondness for touching certain parts of the body or, conversely, avoidance of touching by familiar adults.

Based on these signs, parents can recognize or have grounds to investigate and confirm whether their child has been sexually abused, so they can take appropriate action and avoid future harm. In such cases, the child needs even more care, attention, and protection.

PV