Physical Signs of Abuse
Direct physical signs of sexual abuse are not common. However, when physical signs are present, they may include bruising, bleeding, redness and bumps, or scabs around the mouth, genital or anus. Urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases and abnormal vaginal or penile discharge are also warning signs. There are other indirect physical signs that include:
• persistent or recurring pain during urination or bowel movements
• wetting or soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training
• sexually transmitted diseases
• chronic stomach pain
• headaches
How can you tell if an adult is taking too much interest in your child?
Child grooming is a deliberate process by which offenders gradually initiate and maintain sexual relationships with victims in secrecy. On the surface, grooming a child can look like a close relationship between the offending adult, the targeted child and( potentially) the child’ s caregivers. By recognizing grooming behavior you can intervene. Here are examples of red flag behaviors:
• special attention / preference to a child
• gift giving
• touching or hugging the child
• sympathetic listener
• offers to help the family Learn to spot
• gaining access via the internet child grooming and red flag behaviors.
DARKNESS TO LIGHT https:// www. d2l. org National Helpline: 866. For. Light
30