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Child Sexual Abuse

Childhood Sexual Abuse

Facts about Childhood Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse can take place within the family, by a parent, step-parent, sibling or other relative; or outside the home, for example, by a friend, neighbor, child care person, teacher or stranger. When child sexual abuse has occurred, the child can develop a variety of distressing feelings, thoughts and behaviors.

No child is psychologically prepared to cope with sexual abuse. Even a two or three year old, who cannot know the sexual activity is wrong, will develop problems resulting from the inability to cope with the sexual trauma.

The child of five or older who knows and cares for the abuser becomes trapped between affection and loyalty for the person, and the sense that the sexual activities are terribly wrong. If the child tries to break away from the sexual relationship, the abuser may threaten the child with violence or loss of love. When sexual trauma occurs within the family, the child may fear the anger, jealousy or shame of other family members, or be afraid the family will break up if the secret is told.

Effects of Childhood Sexual Abuse

A child who is the victim of prolonged childhood sexual abuse usually develops low self-esteem, a feeling of worthlessness and an abnormal or distorted view of sex. The child may become withdrawn and mistrustful of adults, and can become suicidal.

Some individuals who suffer from child sexual abuse have difficulty relating to others except on sexual terms, even as they age into adults. Some sexually abused children become child abusers or prostitutes, or have other serious problems such as drug addictions, eating disorders, dual diagnosis or alcoholism as they mature. Additionally, they may be prone to adult sexual abuse as well.

Indicators of Childhood Sexual Abuse:

• Unusual interest in or avoidance of all things of a sexual nature
• Sleep problems or nightmares
• Depression or withdrawal from friends or family
• Seductiveness
• Statements that their body is dirty or damaged, or fear that there is something wrong with their genital area
• Drug addiction, bulimia, anorexia or compulsive eating
• Delinquency or conduct problems
• Secretiveness
• Aspects of sexual molestation in drawings, games or fantasies
• Unusual aggressiveness
• Suicidal behavior

Examples of Childhood Sexual Abuse

While most cases of child sexual abuse involve physical offenses like fondling or penetration, in truth, the abuse extends beyond physical contact with a child. It also includes non-touching sexual deviations between an adult and a child, such as:

• Exposing a child to pornographic material
• Indecent exposure
• Masturbation in front of a child
• Exposing a child to the act of sexual intercourse

Treatments for Childhood Sexual Abuse

If you were a victim of child sexual abuse and you are still battling the sexual trauma that resulted from it, then you should seek sexual abuse treatment as soon as possible. It's never too late to get the help you need.

If you are also suffering from an eating disorder or an alcohol or drug addiction, we can help you locate a dual diagnosis facility that can help you manage your addictions while your treatment for your childhood sexual abuse is under way.

While sexual abuse treatments cannot change the past, they can definitely help to improve your future. Don't wait. Get the help you need to finally overcome the devastating effects of child sexual abuse.

If you require confidential assistance in locating safe and effective sexual abuse treatment centers, please call the national eating disorder treatment helpline at 1-800-542-4610. Professionals are standing by 24/7 to help. CALL NOW!