This involves any misuse of a child for sexual pleasure or gratification. It has the potential to interfere with a childs normal, healthy development, both emotionally and physically. Often, sexually victimized children experience severe emotional disturbances from their own feelings of guilt and shame, as well as the feelings which society imposes on them.(Department of Justice Canada, 2007).

Physical Indicators

weight: gain or loss

complaints of pain in stomach, genital area

inappropriate appearance/dress to age

bruising and/or bleeding in genital area in suspcious areas

Behavioural Indicators

Younger Children

expressive sexual knowledge

extremes: clingy or distant

nightmares

easily irritated

fear of darkness

Older Children

passive versus aggressive extremes

delinquent behaviour

drop in grades