There are many types of abuse, but sexual abuse is the worst since it not only causes physical damage, but also has psychological consequences that accompany the person throughout his life. 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 20 boys will suffer some kind of sexual abuse before the age of 18.
How to detect a sexual abuse? Specialists in psychology and the subject in general tell us what are the signs that adults should be aware of when suspecting that a girl, boy or teenager has been or is a victim of sexual abuse and then resorting to a doctor and the respective authorities.
Signs of sexual abuse that you can not miss
Sexual predators are everywhere and in more than 60% of cases they are people who are part of the family of the victim or their close circle, which makes detecting an abuse more difficult since we have the idea that the danger is in strangers.
How to detect a sexual abuse? Because of their age or simply fear to confess what happens to them since their abuser threatened them, the children do not tell what is happening to them, but there are clear signs that make people suspect that there was or is a sexual abuse.
Any sudden change in behavior in a child is a sign of alarm that something is not right in their lives, but in the case of sexual abuse we can see behaviors that are usually related to this type of abuse:
- The boy or girl performs games with sexual charge or connotation, either with other children or their toys
- Shows knowledge about sexuality that you should not have at your age
- Have nightmares or problems sleeping
- Loses your appetite or shows changes in your eating behaviors, including problems swallowing
- For no apparent reason you are afraid to go to certain places or people
- Is angry, violent or, conversely, more shy and reserved avoiding interactions
- His drawings have sexual or violent charge
- You are afraid of bath time or when your body is exposed
- Out of the blue you have money or new toys, which you may be receiving from an abuser as a way to earn your trust
In adolescents, the signs of sexual abuse are different and may include the following behaviors:
- Self-harm by cuts or burns
- Sexual promiscuity
- Use of alcohol or drugs
- Lack of personal hygiene
- Depression and anxiety
- Fear of close contact in things as simple as a hug
- Changes in sleep and eating habits
- Locks up or hides his activities, can get away from home
These signs, both in children and adolescents, do not necessarily mean sexual abuse or must be presented in its entirety, but before them it is best to consult with professional specialists as soon as possible, who will be able to detect with greater certainty the presence of some type of sexual aggression .
Caring for those who need it most is in each person, not only in their parents or mothers, but also in teachers, health professionals, family members and society, avoiding greater traumatism.