Signs of Sexual Abuse

Signs of Sexual Abuse
Physical evidence of abuse is rare, but may include bladder and urinary infections, scratching and painful genitals (especially during urination), torn, stained or bloody undergarments. While there is no one behavior that positively indicates a child has been sexually abused, sudden or extreme changes in behavior should be considered as a possible reaction to abuse. Some children may not show any changes in behavior.
The following are behavior changes that may occur in children who have been sexually abused:

Fear or dislike of certain people or places
Seductive or "sexy" behavior towards adults or peers
Problems in school, poor grades
Withdrawal from family, friends, or usual activities
Advanced sexual knowledge for the child's age
Regressed behavior, such as bedwetting
Eating disorders, eating very little or excessive eating
Hostility or aggressive behaviors
Drug or alcohol problems
Suicidal thoughts or attempts