The Signs of it

These are a few of the signs, it is not all inclusive, and not in any order.

If your child's behavior changes suddenly and drastically.

If somebody is paying more attention to your child than is necessary or proper.
(i.e. buying him or her gifts frequently, becoming more physically affectionate than previously).

If your child suddenly becomes withdrawn or frequently angry.

If your child begins to avoid a person he or she was previously very close to.

Unusual (as would be indicated by the child's age and developmental stage) knowledge and/or interest in sexual acts and terminology.

A child who is unusually seductive with classmates, teachers, and other adults.

Refusal to dress for physical education. Some molested children think other people know what has happened to them by seeing them undress.

Extreme fear of showers and restrooms, a common place for sexual abuse to occur.

Frequent absences from school justified by one parent only, apparently without regard for the child's performance. This is of special concern if the child is home alone during the day with a parent, and he/she writes the excuses.

Extreme fear of being alone with men and boys or women and girls.

Repeated attempts to run away from home by a child who is otherwise not a behavior problem.

A child who is unusually reluctant or fearful of going home after school.

Unusual or bizarre sexual themes in children's art work or stories.

Copying adult sexual behavior

Persistent sexual play with other children, themselves, toys or pets

Displaying sexual knowledge, through language or behavior, that is beyond what is normal for their age

Unexplained pain, swelling, bleeding or irritation of the mouth, genital or anal area;
urinary infections; sexually transmitted diseases

Hints, indirect comments or statements about the abuse

Hyperactivity Changes in eating habits

Changes in sleeping habits

Difficulty at bath time

Difficulty at bed time

Regression in behaviors

Bed-wetting

Self destructive behaviors

Increase in accidents

Moodiness

Talking nonsense

Bad dreams

Social difficulties

Plays violently with dolls

Hurts animals

Lies

Physical complaints

Fear or dislike of certain people or places

Sleep disturbances

Headaches

School problems

Withdrawal from family, friends, or usual activities

Excessive bathing or poor hygiene

Return to younger, more babyish behavior

Depression

Anxiety

Discipline problems

Running away

Eating disorders

Passive or overly pleasing behavior

Delinquent acts

Low self-esteem

Hostility or aggression

Drug or alcohol problems

Sexual activity or pregnancy at an early age

Suicide attempts