Child Sexual Abuse: Symptoms & Signs (Child Molestation)

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Alternate Names : Child Molestation

It is not always easy for an adult to recognize when sexual abuse has taken place. A child who has been sexually abused may:

act seductively

be excessively curious about sex

engage in inappropriate sex play

feel threatened by physical contact, closeness, or a certain person

have bruises, bleeding, pain, or itching in the genital area

have nightmares

have poor self-esteem

have a premature understanding of sex

lack confidence

masturbate excessively

wet or soil his or her bed

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Child Sexual Abuse: Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors		Child Sexual Abuse: Diagnosis & Tests

Author: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed: 09/04/01

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