Behavioral Warning Signs of Possible
Child Sexual Abuse
Some of these behavioral signs can show up at other stressful times in a child's life such as divorce, the death of a family member, friend or pet, or when there are problems in school, as well as when abuse is involved. Any one sign doesn't mean the child was abused, but several of them suggest you should begin asking questions.
Do you notice some of the following behaviors in children you know?
- Fear of certain people or places (e.g., a child may not want to be left alone with ababy-sitter, a friend, a relative, or some other child or adult; or a child who is usuallytalkative and cheery may become quiet and distant when around a certain person).
- Nightmares, trouble sleeping, or other extreme fears without an obvious explanation.
- Play, writing, drawings or dreams may include sexual or frightening images.
- Spacing out at odd times, seems distracted or distant, "checked out."
- Loss of appetite, or trouble eating or swallowing or sudden changes in eating habits.
- Sudden mood swings: rage, fear, anger, insecurity or withdrawal.
- Leaves "clues" that seem likely to provoke a discussion about sexual issues.
- Stomach illness all of the time with no identifiable reason.
- An older child behaving like a younger child, such as bed-wetting or thumb sucking.
- Adult-like sexual activities with toys or other children, such as simulating sex withdolls or asking other children/siblings to behave sexually.
- New words for private body parts.
- Shows resistance to bathing, toileting, or removing clothes even at appropriate situations.
- Refusing to talk about a "secret" he/she has with an adult or older child.
- Talking about a new older friend.
- Suddenly having money, toys or other gifts for no apparent reason.
- Cutting, burning or otherwise intentionally harming herself or himself, i.e. drug use,alcohol abuse, sexual promiscuity, running away from home.
- Has negative self image, i.e. thinks of self or body as repulsive, dirty or bad
Physical Warning Signs of Possible
Child Sexual Abuse
Does a child close to you have:
- Unexplained bruises, redness, or bleeding of the child's genitals, anus, or mouth?
- Pain at the genitals, anus, or mouth?
- Genital sores or milky fluids in the genital area?
If you said "yes" to any of these examples bring your child to a doctor. Your doctor can help you understand what may be happening. If you have any questions about these or other signs and symptoms, please call our confidential,
toll-free HELPLINE 1-800-CHILDREN (244-5373).
What should I do if I suspect a child is being abused or neglected?
The best way to help abused children is to prevent abuse from happening. But whenever abuse is suspected, reporting it is essential, and in many cases, it's the law. A report is not an accusation; it's merely a request for an investigation and possible help for the family.
For information on reporting suspected abuse, call PCA Georgia's HELPLINE toll-free within the state of Georgia at 1-800-CHILDREN or out of state at 404-870-6580. To make a child abuse report, call your county's Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS).
If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call the police. Remember, your identity and all information you provide are strictly confidential.
Certain individuals are mandated by law to report suspicions of child abuse. Failure to do so can result in legal liability.
The following individuals are mandated reporters according to Georgia law:
- physicians, interns, residents
- hospital or medical personnel
- dentists
- licensed psychologists, persons participating in internships to obtain licensure
- podiatrists
- registered professional nurses, licensed practical nurses
- professional counselors, social workers, marriage and family therapists
- school teachers and school administrators
- school guidance counselors, visiting teachers, school social workers, school psychologists
- child welfare agency personnel, child service organization personnel
- child counseling personnel
- law enforcement personnel
