What are the Symptoms of Sex Abuse in Children ?

Answering questions of this nature are difficult as there are many variables. The age of the child, duration of abuse,and the relationship to the perpetrator all play a role in the degree of symptoms.

Young children, pre-pubescent children may show a variety of symptoms. One symptom does not necessarily imply the child was abused. There usually are a constellation of symptoms that are observed. A few of these are:

1. Appetite changes

2. Sleep disturbances

3. Change in grades

4. Acting out behavior or being withdrawn

5. Refusing social gatherings

6. Preoccupation with genitalia

7. Destruction of toys

8. Temper tantrums

9. Easy to cry

10. Clinging behavior

11. Nightmares increasing

12. Drawings, pictures change in themes

There are many warning signs that can be evident, to raise suspicion. Remember most children will not disclose. They have either been threatened or they have been told their parents or loved ones will be hurt or taken away if they tell. If any symptoms occur, contact a trained, experienced professional specific to the field.

Older children, adolescents and teens show a few different symptoms:

1. Experimenting with drugs and/or alcohol

2. Self mutilating behavior

3. Change in peers or not wanting to go out

4. Angry outbursts

5. Drop in grades at school

6. Increase in tardiness or absence at school

7. Appetite disturbance

8. Gender identity disturbance.

There is no clear cut profile of symptoms in sexually abused children. Many childhood traumas can present with similar symptoms.

This author strongly advises that should you observe one or more symptoms seek out a trained professional for assessment as soon as possible.

How the book,Above His Shoulders will help:

I try to give the reader an honest portrayal of how my symptoms developed. The therapist as well as the victim will be better able to understand the effects of any trauma. I also show how these played out in my adult life, and what it takes to resolve them. Painful? yes. However we can never get better and proceed if you do not experience some pain.

Become a fan on facebook. See the photographs of the actual oak tree and the authors home, as well as a sneak peak at the new book. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Above-His-Shoulders/274131107309?ref=nf

For more information please go to:http://www.peaceandhealing.com/