Sexual Assault and Abuse on Children
Sexual abuse can happen to any man or woman and, unfortunately, even to children. No gender or age is exempt, and that is why it is important to spread awareness on how the family and the community can protect each and every person, especially the most vulnerable members of society, our children.
Child sexual abuse is a form of child abuse involving an adult or older adolescent taking advantage of children for the purpose of sexual gratification. It takes place when an adult asks or forces a child to engage in sexual activities, exposes the child to genitals to gratify his/her own sexual desires, physically touching the child or involving the child in child pornography.
Types of child sexual abuse
Child sexual abuse can be divided into three (3) levels of severity:
- Non-contact abuse – a child is exposed to sexual solicitation;
- Contact abuse – a child experiences genital touching or fondling; and
- Penetrative abuse – a child is exposed to oral, anal or vaginal intercourse by an adult or older adolescent.
The child’s family plays a pivotal role in protecting children from this kind of abuse. Unfortunately, research shows that child sexual abuse is more frequent within families. One of the reasons why cases like this occur is because of the secrecy that surrounds it. Children involved in sexual abuse are very often threatened or coerced by the perpetrators to not disclose such acts to anyone or suffer the consequences, either against themselves or a loved one. They may also be told that nobody will believe them if they tell. Therefore, it is important to always look out for signs that may indicate that a child is suffering from sexual abuse.
Signs of sexual abuse and assault
Physical Indicators
- Bruises, scratches, itching, soreness, discharge or unexplained bleeding in the genital or anal areas;
- Painful and frequent urination;
- Signs of sexually transmitted disease;
- Semen in vagina, anus or external genitalia or on clothing;
- Difficulty in walking or sitting;
- Unexplained pain in the genital area;
- Recurrent urinary tract infection.
Behaviour Indicators
- Frequent mood swings;
- Having a hard time sleeping or having recurrent nightmares;
- Bedwetting, separation anxiety, insecurity;
- Showing an unusual interest in the genitals of others;
- Public masturbation;
- Fear of strangers or fear of men;
- Poor peer relationship;
- Reluctance to undress;
- Problems with school.
Child abuse is a criminal offence. If you believe that a child is suffering from sexual abuse and/or assault, you should seek immediate legal advice from LAC Family Lawyers.
