Signs to look for sexual abuse in your child
A four day sentencing hearing is underway for convicted sexual predator Larry Nassar. One hundred and forty women accused Nassar of abusing them while he worked for USA gymnastics and Michigan State University.
This hearing and the emotional and devastating details girls are sharing has sparked some local parents to wonder how to look for signs of abuse in their children.
According to RAINN, the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, an American anti-sexual assault organization, there are signs to look out for. RAINN is the largest anti-sexual assault organization in the country. Call Me By Your Name star Timothee Chalamet recently said he will donate his wages from working on Woody Allen’s upcoming A Rainy Day in New York to Time’s Up, the LGBT Center in New York and RAINN. The RAINN website says, “The signs of abuse are not always obvious, and learning the warning signs of child sexual abuse could be life saving.”
Read: Larry Nassar’s abuse victims, in their own words
Changing hygiene routines, sleep disturbances or nightmares are some signs to look out for. Also look for regressive behaviors like thumb sucking or age-inappropriate sexual behaviors.
There are also physical signs to look for if you suspect sexual abuse in a child such as bruising or swelling near the genital area, blood on sheets or undergarments, or broken bones.
Verbal signs include the use of phrases that are “too adult” for their age or if the child becomes antisocial.
If you want to talk to your child about your concerns, choose a time and place you know your child will be comfortable. Definitely don’t talk in front of someone who may cause the child harm.
According to RAINN, ask questions that use the child’s vocabulary, but are vague. For example, “Has someone been touching you?” The site adds, “Reporting a crime like sexual abuse may not be easy, and it can be emotionally draining. Keep in mind that reporting abuse gives you the chance to protect someone who can’t protect themselves. Depending on where you live and your role in the child’s life, you may be legally obligated to report suspicions of abuse.”
To speak with someone who is trained to help, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or chat online at online.rainn.org.
Nassar pleaded guilty in November to seven counts of criminal sexual conduct and admitted he used his position to sexually abuse young girls–including those under age 13. He’s expected to get life in prison.
More: I-Team and Stands for You investigations
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